The Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the South Huvadhoo Atoll Council to implement alternative, community-based sentences imposed by the Criminal Court, expanding rehabilitation-focused justice efforts across the atoll.

The agreement was formalised this morning at a ceremony held at the Atoll Council office. Commissioner of Prisons Hassan Zareer signed on behalf of MCS, while Council President Hassan Faihath Gudhurathulla signed on behalf of the council.

The partnership is based on Regulation No. 2022/R-13, which governs the enforcement of additional punishments under Section 1005 of the Penal Code. Under this framework, atoll, city, and island councils may collaborate with MCS to implement non-custodial sentences such as community service, supervised programmes, and educational or rehabilitation-based activities.

Through the new agreement, the South Huvadhoo Atoll Council has committed to supporting MCS in assigning inmates to specific community-based, educational or rehabilitative programmes, depending on the nature of the sentence issued by the court. The council has also held discussions with local members of parliament and community representatives to identify suitable activities and areas where inmates can meaningfully contribute.

The initiative aims to strengthen public understanding of the role communities play in reintegrating offenders and supporting their transition back into society. As part of the agreement, the atoll council will also assist in community outreach to build acceptance of rehabilitation-focused approaches, emphasising the shared responsibility of ensuring successful reintegration.