President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced new housing initiatives aimed at empowering young people working in the tourism sector.

The President made the remarks while responding to issues raised by participants at the Youth Coffee with President session. He said one of the biggest difficulties faced by young people employed in the tourism industry is having to live away from their families while working at resorts.

To address this, President Dr Muizzu said the Government plans to prioritise housing development in islands located near resorts, enabling young people to work closer to their families. He said youth employed at resorts near an island will be given priority in housing projects developed in those areas.

The President described the lack of housing as one of the most significant obstacles to youth empowerment. Referring to ongoing housing projects involving more than 800 units across various islands, he said a designated percentage of these flats will be reserved for individuals working in the tourism sector.

In addition, the President stated that youth engaged in the fisheries sector and young people starting new families will also be given priority under Government housing projects. The policy will apply to projects implemented in island communities as well as in the Greater Malé Region.

President Dr Muizzu also stated that the Government’s objective is to distribute housing projects more evenly across the country, rather than concentrating them solely in the Greater Malé Region. He said expanding housing opportunities nationwide will allow young people to remain in their home islands or live closer to their families.