Member of Parliament for the Dhidhdhoo constituency, Abdul Latheef Mohamed, has stated that establishing public works services in every atoll of the Maldives would bring significant long-term benefits to citizens.

He made the remarks while speaking on MMTV’s Riyaasee Bayaan programme, which focuses on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s 2026 Presidential Address delivered at the opening of this year’s sittings of the People’s Majlis. The MP said that bringing essential services closer to the people is a key policy priority of the President.

Highlighting efforts undertaken under this policy, Abdul Latheef noted that the establishment of ATM services on all inhabited islands has already provided considerable ease and convenience to residents. He said similar thinking underpins reforms in public service delivery.

He also referred to measures aimed at improving access to healthcare services. The MP said citizens should not have to travel to cities or atoll capitals for minor medical needs, nor travel abroad for major treatment where services can be arranged within the country. He added that expanding laboratory services to all islands would reduce the need for costly travel to atoll hospitals or regional centres for routine tests.

Abdul Latheef further noted that at present, when infrastructure issues arise in the atolls, technical teams often have to be dispatched from Malé. He said there are limited mechanisms at island or atoll level to address such matters independently, particularly in urgent situations.

Quoting from the President’s address, the MP said President Dr Muizzu has pledged to establish a Public Works unit in every atoll within this year. He described the initiative as one that would greatly ease the burden on residents across the country.

In his Presidential Address, the President stated that work is underway to establish public works units equipped with modern resources in 19 islands across 15 atolls where such services are not currently available, with completion targeted by mid-year.

President Dr Muizzu stated that once these units are operational, they will be responsible for the maintenance and repair of infrastructure across the islands. This includes harbour dredging and deepening, channel clearance, various harbour repairs, road maintenance, and other infrastructure upkeep. The aim is to ensure that maintenance and repair works are carried out in a cost-effective, reliable and sustainable manner at the atoll level.