Budget 2025 – minister also uncertain about spending order for project funds

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has revealed that he himself is not certain of the order in which funds allocated for development projects will be spent.

During Wednesday's sitting of the People’s Majlis, lawmakers questioned the minister regarding the projects the government plans to implement in 2025 and the resumption of currently halted projects.

Speaking at parliament, the minister noted that the order of budget projects to be implemented is not clear at the moment. He explained that this is because projects are carried out based on a "needs basis," considering the order in which things need to be done. He however emphasized that he believes project details will be finalized and submitted to parliament as soon as possible.

Elaborating further, the minister noted that the most important responsibility of the state is to implement projects that benefit the entire community. Although the minister repeatedly stated that the current administration will carry out projects or schemes across outlying islands in a specific order, he could not clearly explain what said order is.

In addition to this, the minister expressed concern about some companies using advance payments from some government projects for business purposes.

On Wednesday, the minister went on to shed light on some of the work being carried out under the ministry. As such, he responded to questions from lawmakers regarding harbor development projects and other important projects.

However, he failed to provide clear answers to questions from members about projects being halted.

Further, the minister said that even if some projects cannot be completed from this year's budget, attempts will be made to get it done in 2025.