This administration has engaged directly with workers and listened to their concerns more than any other; our approach is built on a holistic and just policy: Muizzu

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that his administration will be the one that engages most closely with the workforce and listens most attentively to their concerns.

He made these remarks in a message released to mark International Workers' Day.

The President stated that the government is implementing a comprehensive and equitable policy aimed at protecting the rights of both local and expatriate workers across various sectors, while simultaneously fostering the advancement of the labor force.

The President stated that long-standing concerns raised by small and medium-sized enterprises over the years have finally been addressed. He noted that the government has resolved numerous challenges previously faced by fishermen, revitalized the agricultural sector, and expanded tourism to regions where it was previously non-existent. Furthermore, he highlighted that the administration has introduced several new industrial activities to the Maldives for the first time.

The President stated that while each of these initiatives continues to generate more jobs across the country, last year’s National Production Exhibition showcased the largest collection of Maldivian products ever seen in history. The President further expressed confidence that, with the ongoing commemoration of the Year of Maldivian Production, this year’s exhibition will be even more successful, God willing.

As the current administration approaches the two-and-a-half-year mark of its term, the President has announced that over 23,000 new jobs have been created across both the public and private sectors.

"We have begun moving toward the public's desired goals by implementing robust measures to regularize and monitor expatriate workers—steps that no previous administration has taken. We are currently enforcing regulations that designate specific jobs and sectors as exclusive to Maldivian citizens," the President stated. "On this International Workers' Day, I extend my greetings and best wishes for health and success to every hardworking individual contributing to the progress of the Maldives, and I pray for the blessings of Allah upon you all."

In his remarks, the President highlighted that the Maldivian civilization built by our ancestors offers thousands of examples of craftsmanship, skill, and industriousness. The President further stated that amidst the changing tides of time and the rapid advancements in transport and telecommunications, remaining a productive and hardworking people with a robust economy is a vital pillar for protecting and sustaining the nation's independence and sovereignty.

The President stated that special emphasis has been placed on vocational training within schools, highlighting the establishment of the Maldives' first vocational high school. He further noted that specialized programs have been launched to train individuals in fields vital to national development. Additionally, the President mentioned that the government has increased the provision of grants and concessional loans to promote various arts, crafts, and technical skills.

The President stated that the National Service Program, launched to ensure no youth is left behind and to mold them into resilient individuals, is already bringing joy to families as graduates transition into responsible professional roles. Furthermore, the President noted that the administration's proactive efforts to collaborate with major international e-commerce platforms are beginning to yield results, securing opportunities for Maldivian workers and products within the global market.

The President stated that efforts are underway to provide employment opportunities for prison inmates to reduce social marginalization and prevent them from being left behind. He further noted that a specialized program to secure jobs for persons with disabilities is progressing rapidly, and in line with his presidential pledge, opportunities have now been opened for those who wish to remain in the workforce after the age of 65.

The President stated that priority is being given to capable local companies when awarding development projects. He urged the public to cooperate in accelerating and successfully implementing the government's key measures to expand employment and professional opportunities. He further called upon every capable Maldivian to step forward and enter the workforce with renewed vigor. Additionally, the President emphasized that the nation's goal of becoming a developed and prosperous country by 2045 can only be achieved through the efforts of a hardworking Maldivian workforce.