Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham has announced that the National Policy on Ageing has been developed and is ready for implementation in collaboration with relevant agencies.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office on Monday, the Minister said the policy was formulated with foreign technical assistance and through consultations with all relevant institutions in the Maldives.

She said the policy, which covers a five year period, has now been translated into a detailed action plan to guide implementation. The aim of the policy, she said, is to ensure that senior citizens are able to live honourable, dignified, and fulfilling lives as valued members of society over the next five years.

The Minister added that discussions are currently underway with relevant institutions on the practical aspects of implementing the policy. She noted that all institutions involved have agreed to continue working together to ensure the effective rollout of the policy.

Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Dr Aishath Shiham said the Ministry has so far conducted the Ufaaveri Raasthaa programme in 11 atolls to encourage greater participation of senior citizens in community activities. More than 1,000 senior citizens have participated in the programme, with strong engagement recorded.

The Minister also reiterated that the senior citizen population in the Maldives is projected to double by 2030, highlighting the importance of strengthening policies, services, and programmes to meet the needs of an ageing population.