A TikTok livestream raised over MVR 1.2 million to complete Dhonkalo’s home, One Online reported.
The funds were raised for Fayyah Hassan Fayaz, a 19-year-old with special needs. Known as Dhonkalo, he lives with his father, Fayaz, in Hithaadhoo, Baa Atoll.
The fundraiser aimed to complete the remaining work on a house being built for the father and son to move into. According to Fayaz, work on the house has been stalled for many years.
Fayaz said ceilings, tiling and the boundary wall remained unfinished. The report said all livestream proceeds would go towards completing the house and providing a comfortable, safe environment for Dhonkalo.
Citing Fayaz, the report said Dhonkalo faced significant difficulties moving around their current home. He hopes to finish the new house and move his son there.
According to the report published on October 2, 2026, the livestream began at 21:00 the previous night. The livestream, titled Hiya for Dhonkalo, was broadcast on Fayaz’s official TikTok account.
MTP and Mariyam Sama led the initiative. Other Maldivian TikTok hosts also took part in the livestream, the report said.
Citing other media reports, One Online said around 12,000 people were watching the livestream. At times, that number rose above 14,000.
The report said some transfers encountered difficulties as donations came in and the bank account reached its limit. Nevertheless, the fundraising target was reached within a short time.
Fayaz and Dhonkalo came to public attention through TikTok videos showing the time they spend together. According to the report, Fayaz left his job and moved to Hithaadhoo to care for his son full-time.
He now earns a living climbing and pruning coconut palms and other trees. The report said this income and a government allowance cover Dhonkalo’s expenses.
