The 44-year-old man rescued from drowning near Male' North Harbour yesterday is in critical condition and being treated on a ventilator, Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) has said.

The incident occurred around 11:30 am yesterday.

The man, a local resident, was pulled from the water by Maldivian surfing champion Abdulla Areef (Fuku).

Speaking to Mihaaru News, Areef said the area where the man was found is not commonly used for swimming and is considered hazardous due to heavy speedboat traffic.

He said he had also called out not to remain in the area.

Noticing the man's movements, Areef jumped into the sea with a buoy from a nearby boat and managed to bring him to the surface as he was sinking.

IGMH said the man is currently in intensive care and receiving treatment on a ventilator.