President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that a dedicated programme to develop handball courts will be launched across the Maldivian islands in the upcoming year. The announcement was made during his official visit to Noonu Landhoo in South Miladhunmadulu Atoll.

Speaking to residents, the President stated that handball is widely played across the country and has now been recognised by the Government as a national development priority. As part of this recognition, the upcoming state budget will include a specific allocation for the construction of handball courts in islands where such facilities are required.

He explained that a list of eligible islands will be compiled under this initiative, with Landhoo expected to be among those included. He confirmed that a handball court will be established on the island as part of the programme, aiming to expand sports infrastructure in communities already actively engaged in the sport.

Turning to ongoing projects on the island, President Dr Muizzu highlighted that the Landhoo health centre has now been upgraded to provide 24-hour services. He stated that this development fulfils a previous Government commitment and noted that recruitment of additional staff to support the expanded operation is currently underway.

In addition to healthcare improvements, the President reported that the groundbreaking for Landhoo’s new Fitness and Recreation Centre has already been held and that construction is now in its initial phase.

Environmental protection efforts were also addressed. In this regard, President Dr Muizzu stated that the projects to stabilise the eroding areas of the island and to develop the beach used for swimming will be formally handed over in September. He added that physical work on these projects is expected to commence before the end of the year.

In the education sector, he confirmed that construction of a new school building is progressing. He added that further services will be introduced in line with the school’s proposal for expansion, ensuring that educational needs are adequately met.

The President also addressed infrastructure development, stating that preparations for delivering materials for the island’s water supply system are nearly complete. He further noted that the construction of the island’s ice plant is advancing and will be completed within the year.

Concluding his address, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed that all Government-led projects in Landhoo would be carried out in close consultation with the local community. He assured residents that the Administration would maintain close oversight to ensure the timely and effective completion of these initiatives.

During his visit, the President convened a meeting at the Landhoo Council Office, where he met with members of the Landhoo Council, the Women’s Development Committee, and heads of local institutions.