President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has shared his vision to increase women's participation in the construction sector workforce. He made these remarks at the Maldives National Association of Construction Industry—MNACI Builder Awards 2023 ceremony.
The President stated that the Administration's approach involved working with MNACI and industry stakeholders to shape policies towards augmenting opportunities for women in the sector. In addition, the President expressed his vision for a more inclusive construction sector, including the participation of people with disabilities interested in the industry.
The President emphasised that much work had to be done to end the dominance of foreign companies in securing government projects over local companies and that the Administration is prepared to take the required steps to reverse this. He stated that the Government would propose any necessary revisions to laws and regulations after stakeholder discussions with industry leaders, even if it involved potentially changing the point system. President Dr Muizzu additionally stated that promoting the nationalism of the Maldives includes taking control of the authenticity of local craftsmanship and industries back into the hands of Maldivians.
At tonight's ceremony, President Dr Muizzu was presented with the 'Honour of Bodu Rasgefaanu' to appreciate his outstanding services to the construction industry. Mohamed Ali Janah, the President of the MNACI, presented the plaque to President Dr Muizzu.
The President additionally presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Abdulla Mohamed, the Chairman of Amin Group of Companies, and Mohamed Ali Janah, the Chairman of Hotels and Resorts Investment Maldives.
