President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced that a new chapter in regional development is on the horizon. He made the remark at the official reception to commemorate the one year in office.
The President reiterated that high-end services will be implemented north and south of the Maldives. Seven urban centres will be built nationwide to guarantee equal access to high-quality services. He also stated that he would seek public consultation on this issue.
The Government aims to ensure that all services are accessible on every island, even in areas with small populations. The President stated that ATMs will be installed on all islands, and every island will have access to fuel at the State Trading Organisation (STO) rate. Additionally, the government plans to extend RTL services to all atolls and ensure that subsidies, Aasandha, and social security support for those in need are provided sufficiently so that no one is left without assistance.
The President announced an increase in civil servants' salaries next year and a raise for all judiciary employees by 2026.
The President stated that a significant number of housing projects will be initiated, and efforts will also be made to improve health sector infrastructure. In addition to a specialty hospital for cancer, thalassemia, and mental health, plans are underway to establish five more hospitals across the country. He emphasised that a substantial portion of next year's budget has been allocated for developing health infrastructure, purchasing equipment, and training personnel. In the coming weeks, work on establishing general practitioner (GP) clinics will continue. He also stated that the primary objective is to facilitate access for Maldivians, allowing them to receive medical treatment locally instead of travelling abroad.
The President reaffirmed his intention to provide primary healthcare services to every atoll in the nation. Additionally, he stated that direct flights to China and Europe would soon be available on wide-body aircraft that arrive in the Maldives. The President expressed confidence that the expansion of Velana International Airport would be finished by the end of the following year.
