President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated his Administration’s commitment to expanding opportunities within the creative economy by enabling Maldivians to access international payment platforms such as PayPal.

During a meeting with residents of Shaviyani Komandoo as part of his ongoing visit to the atoll, the President underscored the importance of digital payment accessibility in empowering Maldivians to participate in the global creative and freelance economies.

He highlighted the upcoming Ooredoo Fintech–PayPal partnership, scheduled to launch in 2026, as a key milestone that will open new avenues for local entrepreneurs and creators. President Dr Muizzu noted that initiatives of this nature are central to achieving the Government’s broader goals of diversifying and modernising the national economy.

The President also emphasised that 2026 has been designated the Year of National Innovation, expressing confidence that the country’s innovation drive will span across multiple sectors, encouraging creativity, entrepreneurship, and technological progress.

Noting that the outcomes of ongoing development efforts are beginning to take shape, he said citizens would soon experience the tangible benefits of economic growth. The President pointed to tourism investment projects in North Miladhunmadulu Atoll and infrastructure development, including airport upgrades, as key steps in building investor confidence and generating local employment.

In addition, President Dr Muizzu highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector, including the establishment of a 30-tonne ice plant, for which an agreement was signed during the visit.

Reaffirming his Administration’s vision, the President said these initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure that economic progress remains locally driven, empowering Maldivians to take the lead in shaping the nation’s future.