The government is to extend the deferment of rent on the ‘Hiyaa’ housing units for three additional months, until the end of March.

This was announced by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who took the podium at the ceremony to mark the National Unity Day 2021, held at the Republic Square on Sunday.

As such, he noted that the government acknowledges the plight of the owners of the ‘Hiyaa’ housing scheme and announced the decision to extend the deferment period for rent.

He added that the decision will address some of the immediate concerns raised by the flat owners, adding that he remains hopeful that the renovation work will conclude allowing residents to be settled in by March 2022.

President Solih assured that the government remains committed to listen to the voices of the people and remedy their concerns, adding that preserving national unity is a top priority for his administration.

Touching down on the exemplary kindred, uniting, and fraternal ties displayed by Maldivians during the Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004, the president stated that 190 islands suffered multiple degrees of destruction.

However, he noted that despite the situation, the country came together, as “one family”.

Noting that over 15,000 were displaced and numerous islands were left severely damaged in the wake of the tsunami, the president expressed gratitude to the people for their exceptional unity and compassion in assisting the vulnerable during the trying times.

President Solih also recalled how the lives of many were uprooted due to the catastrophe.

Shedding light on the efforts to battle the Covid-19 pandemic, the president applauded the work of volunteers who went above and beyond to provide food, water and other essentials to vulnerable persons.

He went on to speak about the significant progress made in the efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19, and expressed confidence in overcoming the socio-economic challenges caused by the pandemic, through collaboration and unity