Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has revealed that the construction of new council buildings across islands has been assigned to a Malaysian company for a cost of USD 36 million, without an announcement.

The minister said this during a press conference held on Thursday. USD 36 million is approximately MVR 554,400,000.

Following a decision by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, an agreement has been signed with a Malaysian company called "Hexter Global" to rebuild council buildings across 55 islands on a contractor finance basis.

On Thursday, the minister said that the company was selected for the project based on a proposal submitted by the company. However, the minister said that the work was assigned to "Hexter Global" after examining whether the company could do such work and compiling a related report. The minister did not disclose whether any other parties had expressed interest in the project.

Further, the minister has revealed the reason why a Maldivian signed on behalf of Hexter, which is a foreign company. The minister disclosed that a Maldivian signed the agreement because the Malaysian company had given him power of attorney. The minister also stated that this was done after completing the procedures and checking the necessary aspects.

Highlighting that the practical work of the project will begin in April 2025, the minister noted that it is estimated that the project work will be completed within the next one and a half years. The minister also revealed that a team from the company will arrive in the Maldives on February 28.

According to the minister, out of the 55 buildings, 39 council buildings will have two floors, with each building including rooms for the Council President, Vice President, and Secretary General, as well as space for council members to work and space for other activities.

In addition to the project run by Hexter, the government has also announced plans to construct 50 council buildings with assistance from the government of China.