President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the 300 three-bedroom housing units slated for development in Villimalé will be designated exclusively for the island's residents.
He delivered these remarks during a consultative meeting with the Villimalé community, held as part of his initiative to engage directly with citizens and solicit their views and counsel on key matters of public interest.
Noting that these units form a component of the broader housing projects announced for the Greater Malé region, the President confirmed that construction is set to commence this year.
Addressing the healthcare sector, the President highlighted the ongoing efforts to upgrade Hulhumalé Hospital to a tertiary facility. He noted that, as operations are relocated to facilitate this upgrade, the Administration will work with the Malé City Group of Hospitals to implement measures that mitigate any disruption to services. He emphasised that public cooperation will be essential during this transition period.
Furthermore, the President detailed plans to modernise Villimalé's roads. He clarified that this project would be undertaken alongside essential upgrades to the electricity, water and sewerage networks. He also announced that work on a new multi-sports complex would begin in the coming year, alongside the installation of a US dollar ATM on the island.
During the meeting, the Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib, shared further technical details regarding the bridge, road development, and housing initiatives. He emphasised that safeguarding the island's natural greenery and environment remains a top priority throughout all developmental works. He added that, even upon completion of the bridge, there are no plans to introduce motorised vehicles to Villimalé.
Additionally, an agreement was formalised during the evening to redevelop the site of the current Masjid Al-Salaam into a modern mosque.
During the public session, a primary concern raised by residents involved the inconvenience caused by two ageing trees on the island. Acceding to the residents' request, the President directed the removal of the trees.
The community also proposed that Villimalé's development projects be managed under a dedicated corporation. Further appeals included the upgrading of the swimming area, improvements to ferry connectivity and internal transport systems, and the establishment of a designated fish market. Notably, residents expressed their gratitude, observing that this was the first occasion a sitting President had visited Villimalé specifically to enquire after the well-being of its people.
Concluding the meeting, the President stated that he does not accept that Villimalé should be marginalised or neglected simply by virtue of being Villimalé. He affirmed his resolve to address the community's long-standing needs, whilst delivering on new developmental goals.
