Fuvahmulah, the Maldives’ only one-island atoll, has long stood apart from the rest of the country due to its distinctive geography, social fabric and economic character. In recent years, the island has also developed a tourism market that differs significantly from other destinations in the Maldives, while producing notable figures across various fields over the decades.

Ali Maseeh, the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC) candidate for mayor of Fuvahmulah City, is contesting the mayoral post with a vision shaped by experience and a deep understanding of the island’s unique characteristics.

Speaking on MMTV’s Niulhemundhaa Khabaru programme, Maseeh outlined a development agenda focused on long-term economic strength and sustainable growth.

Maseeh said the core objective of his vision is to build a strong and resilient economy for Fuvahmulah City, with tourism identified as a key driver. He believes this can be achieved by increasing tourist arrivals while also diversifying the island’s tourism offerings.

He noted that around 90 per cent of tourists currently visiting Fuvahmulah are divers, reflecting the island’s strong reputation in the diving market. While this niche remains important, he stressed the need to attract visitors from additional tourism segments.

“A comprehensive master plan should be developed so that people from a wider range of markets will visit Fuvahmulah,” he said.

Another major component of Maseeh’s vision is to establish Fuvahmulah as a national centre for education and training.

His proposals include the development of student accommodation facilities, the introduction of training and skills development courses, and the decentralisation of educational opportunities so that students from across the Maldives can study in Fuvahmulah.

“The aim is to bring courses and vocational training programmes that are not offered in other parts of the country to Fuvahmulah,” he said.

Maseeh identified housing as one of the most significant challenges facing Fuvahmulah City. He said the lack of adequate housing has contributed to residents leaving the island.

The mayoral candidate emphasised the need to provide housing opportunities for current residents, while also recognising that a stable and sufficient population is essential for economic growth. As part of this approach, he said the city should also facilitate housing for people from other islands who wish to relocate to Fuvahmulah.

“My goal is to provide housing facilities for the people of Fuvahmulah City and encourage others to migrate here,” he said.

Maseeh also highlighted Fuvahmulah’s natural environment and the green economic opportunities available on the island, particularly when combined with its young and skilled workforce.

He said his mayoral campaign is built around identifying and maximising these opportunities for the benefit of residents, and assured that he would work closely with the Government to implement his plans if elected.