Island of residence no longer matters in marriage: MP Mauroof
During the debate on proposed amendments to the Residency Act, Kendhoo MP Mauroof emphasized the need to streamline the residency transfer process to foster national development. He argued that since successive governments have struggled to develop every island individually, the focus must shift beyond mere infrastructure toward a more strategic developmental approach. Furthermore, the MP highlighted the importance of addressing the ongoing trend of internal migration to the Greater Malé Area, driven by the search for essential services and employment opportunities.
Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir delivers a speech during a sitting of the People's Majlis. | People's Majlis
Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir has stated that maintaining residency in a specific island is no longer significant, noting that Maldivians do not consider island origins even when it comes to marriage.
During the debate on the proposed amendment to the Residency Act, introduced by MDP Member for North Galolhu Mohamed Ibrahim, MP Mauroof noted that Maldivians do not consider specific islands when it comes to marriage, as people frequently marry those they fall in love with regardless of their home island.
MP Mauroof stated that an individual's permanent residency in a specific island should not be considered a matter of significance, and that mechanisms must be in place to allow for the seamless transfer of residency.
Furthermore, MP Mauroof stated that facilitating easier residency transfers would also contribute to developmental progress.
Highlighting the challenges governments face in developing 187 islands individually, MP Mauroof stated that the public's perception of development—currently focused solely on physical infrastructure—must evolve.
Therefore, I believe that successive governments have placed a significant emphasis on centralizing the population within the Greater Male' Area under the guise of urban development. People have congregated in this region, and regardless of whether this was the government's explicit intention, the prevailing trend shows a vast number of Maldivians flocking to the capital. As the saying goes, "fish swim to where the water is"—people are migrating here in search of employment, healthcare, and better educational opportunities for their children.Mauroof Zakir, Member of Parliament for the Kendhoo constituency.
Referring to public demands, MP Mauroof noted that during political seasons ahead of elections, citizens typically call for infrastructure development, such as the construction of harbors, sewerage systems, and sports fields.
However, MP Mauroof stated that it is now time to move beyond relying on these traditional methods and transition to a new level of development.
