A project has been inaugurated to expand Bank of Maldives (BML)’s ATM services nationwide.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated the project during a special ceremony held for the occasion on Thursday.

The “Mulhi Raajje ah BML ATM” project is an ambitious initiative aiming to install ATMs in all inhabited islands by the end of year 2025.

Mohamed Shareef, the CEO and Managing Director of BML shed light on the significant impact the project will have on enhancing financial inclusion.

Shareef said that BML has always prioritized financial inclusion for the communities nationwide and that the bank has pioneered modern banking solutions in the country with the first ATMs, internet banking, mobile banking, and digital wallets.

The BML CEO and MD expressed commitment to continue serving the communities of the island nation through the expansion of their ATM footprint.

He added that by the end of 2025, every Maldivian will have access to essential banking services on their respective islands.

Thursday’s event saw BML signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Economic Development for the implementation of the project nationwide.

BML on Thursday opened two new ATM centers in Hangnaameedhoo and Omadhoo islands of Alif Dhaal atoll, as part of the project.

The bank revealed that the opening of their ATM in Omadhoo marks a significant milestone for the bank as it has become the 150th ATM in their network.

Taking the podium at the ceremony, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed said that the results of efforts to improve the economy are now visible and that although large buildings are not visible during this government's tenure, much work has been done to put the economy on the right track.

Saeed said that more cabinet meetings have been held in the past 52 weeks, than observed in the past five years alone.

The government revealed that the project aims to establish more than 250 ATMs across Maldives by the end of 2025.

BML’s CEO and MD Shareef presented a commemorative plaque to the president at Thursday’s ceremony, to mark the significant occasion.

As BML expands their physical network, they remain committed to enhance their digital banking services.

BML expressed commitment to continue to innovate to cater the growing needs of its customers, leveraging partnerships with global card networks and payment solution providers to provide seamless and secure banking experiences

BML remains committed to support individuals, businesses and communities across the nation, with a nationwide network of 39 branches across all 20 atolls, 95 self-service banking centers, 150 ATMs, agent banking services and a full suite of digital banking services.