The Maldives has introduced new rules for tourist resorts that conduct marriage ceremonies for guests, after an embarrassing incident took place during a renewal of wows ritual in which the celebrant was caught on camera abusing a Swiss couple.

A government statement said hotels that conduct ceremonies in breach of the new rules will be fined US$ 78,000.

The rules state vows be given under supervision of the resort management and the couple be given choice of language and translation.

It also prohibits the celebrant and the participants from engaging in any activity “disrespectful or degrading to any religion, Maldivian culture or custom,” the statement said.

If the ceremony is recorded the rules require the management of the resort to produce a copy to the tourism ministry when required.

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