President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has laid the foundation for the ‎children’s shelter, ‘Kuda Kudhinge Hiyaa’ in Hulhumale’. The foundation stone laying ‎ceremony was held this evening, and was also attended by First Lady Fathimath ‎Ibrahim.‎

Speaking at the ceremony, the President stated that the building of the children’s ‎shelter in Hulhumale’ is another step towards the creation of a more humane ‎society, as envisioned by the Government and people of Maldives. The children’s ‎shelter is being constructed under the generous support of an affluent family from ‎the United Arab Emirates.‎

In his speech, President Yameen highlighted that the public’s commitment towards ‎improving Maldivian society is particularly evident through its support of all ‎Government humanitarian undertakings. In this regard, the President noted that the ‎construction of the children’s shelter in Villingili in 2004 would not have been ‎possible without the significant support of a local business. ‎

President Yameen also asserted that at its completion, the children’s shelter in ‎Hulhumale’ would be able to accommodate a larger number of children, and ‎provide better facilities, than the current children’s shelter in Villingili.‎

The President expressed his sincere appreciation to the charitable UAE family for ‎their substantial donation towards the building of the children’s shelter. President ‎Yameen also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment towards the protection of ‎children, women, and individuals with special needs, through the facilitation of ‎necessary legal and other reforms.‎