President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that a new policy will be introduced to allow individuals who own one-room apartments to qualify for three-bedroom housing if they give up their existing units, following requests from residents.

Speaking to residents of Henveiru, President Dr Muizzu said the Government would work to ease residency requirements for applicants, including the rule that applicants must have lived in Malé for at least five years. He added that the Administration intends to allow as many eligible applicants as possible to apply, as housing remains one of the most pressing issues in the capital.

The President noted that the previous administration had removed individuals who were on the earlier final beneficiary list, and said a special category has now been created for them in the new housing scheme.

President Dr Muizzu also reiterated that land reclamation for Hulhumalé Phase III is progressing rapidly with two dredgers operating simultaneously. He stated that formal handover of land registries for the area will begin in January, and that reclamation of Giraavarufalhu is expected to be completed by March. He also added that land registry handovers for Hulhumalé Phase II are already underway.

Responding to concerns over delays in land allocations, the President said land transfers have been completed where possible. Regarding Hulhumalé Phase II, he noted that several issues were faced but land was handed over as soon as circumstances allowed. He added that work on the 4,000 flats developed by FDC is moving ahead at full speed, with essential services now being installed. The flats are expected to be ready for occupation before the start of the next academic year.

Addressing concerns about changes to the Giraavarufalhu land-use plan, the President said the previous plan had allocated the entire area for housing plots without space for essential public facilities. As a result, some plots had to be relocated to Gulhifalhu, but he assured that this adjustment does not amount to failing to fulfil his commitments. The President also highlighted ongoing land reclamation projects in Uthuru Thilafalhu and Rasmalé.

Highlighting that road conditions are the most significant concern in Malé after housing, the President said funding has already been secured for road development, which he described as a permanent solution to long-standing issues. On parking concerns, he said parking buildings will be constructed in four locations under India’s Line of Credit, with two in Malé and one each in Villimalé and Hulhumalé.

President Dr Muizzu also reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to acting in line with public interests. He highlighted recent developments such as amendments to the Drugs Act and the ongoing formulation of the National Development Plan with public consultation. He also reiterated efforts to strengthen judicial independence.

The President also stated that the Government intends to expand the circumstances under which pension funds may be used, with a bill scheduled to be submitted to Parliament in its next term. He further noted progress in issuing Seafarers Identification Documents after a delay of 13 years, enabling Maldivian seafarers to secure employment with international shipping companies.

Addressing concerns related to pay harmonisation, the President acknowledged ongoing issues with overtime payments but said most offices have now resolved them, and further work is underway.

He also assured the public that letters sent to the Government will be attended to promptly, with efforts underway to clear existing backlogs. He described timely responses as an important element of good governance. The President added that while he will meet citizens when time permits, members of the public may also reach out to ministers who will forward concerns to him.

The President stated that all concerns raised at the meeting will be addressed in accordance with laws and regulations.