The development of Hope Island, a rehabilitation facility for children involved in criminal situations, will begin in January, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihussan has said.

The Minister said Hope Island will be developed in North Thilafalhu and will operate as a long-term care facility under the juvenile justice system. He said the project will be implemented under a cross-subsidy investment model, with discussions ongoing with relevant stakeholders, including the tourism sector.

According to the Minister, the facility will have the capacity to accommodate up to 700 people and will include specialised units for children and staff, training areas, sports facilities, and a health centre.

He said a mosque with a capacity of 700 people will also be constructed, along with ceremonial spaces and meeting areas to allow children to meet with their parents.

The Government plans to reclaim 15 hectares of land from North Thilafalhu for the project. Children accommodated at Hope Island will be provided with basic and religious education, as well as psychosocial intervention programmes, therapy, and structured sports activities.

Children admitted to the facility will remain there until the age of 18, after which they will be required to serve for a specified period with the Maldives Police Service.

Authorities said the project is being developed amid a rise in the number of children exposed to criminal environments. More than 160 children are currently receiving care under various state-run rehabilitation programmes.