Muizzu Now Pledges to Develop All Islands Despite Earlier Doubts
1 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހޮނިހިރު 08:12In an interview at Princeton University on September 26, 2024, President Muizzu stated that it is unfeasible to provide equal development and attention to all 186 inhabited islands of the Maldives; however, this stands in contrast to his remarks during the official Independence Day ceremony, where he pledged to pursue development across all islands regardless of their size.
President Muizzu delivers his address at the official ceremony marking Independence Day. | President's Office
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who previously stated that it would be impossible to develop all 186 inhabited islands in the Maldives simultaneously, has now declared that he will develop the country without discriminating between small and large islands.
In an interview at Princeton University on September 26, 2024, President Muizzu stated that with 186 inhabited islands across the Maldives, it is not feasible to develop or prioritize every island equally. He explained that his administration's policy focuses on establishing key urban centers within the Greater Male' region, as well as in the northern and southern atolls. The President further noted that the Ras Male' project is being developed as a central component of this strategic policy.
As I have previously mentioned, we cannot sustain development or focus equally on all 186 islands. Our plan is to establish urban centers across the country, including the capital region, as well as designated hubs in the north and south.President Muizzu
President Muizzu has decided to develop seven islands across the Maldives as urban centers. The designated islands are R. Ungoofaaru, B. Eydhafushi, Lh. Naifaru, ADh. Mahibadhoo, F. Nilandhoo, Dh. Kudahuvadhoo, and L. Fonadhoo.
In a recent episode of his podcast, the President stated that he expects to see residents currently living in Malé begin relocating to the newly developed urban centers across the atolls in the very near future.
However, while addressing the official Independence Day ceremony, President Muizzu stated that development projects will be carried out across all islands, regardless of their size.
Furthermore, President Muizzu pledged that by Independence Day 2028, all inhabited islands in the Maldives will be equipped with essential services and facilities. This includes the completion of water and sewerage systems, waste management centers, fitness and recreation centers, outdoor gyms, children's parks, ATM services, and football or futsal pitches, alongside the full modernization of electricity infrastructure.
President Muizzu stated that by July 26, 2028, the government will establish dedicated police centers and laboratories, strengthen the national healthcare system, and set up fuel stations in every atoll offering STO rates. He further pledged to establish campuses for the Maldives National University and the Islamic University of Maldives in every atoll, complete the construction of 100 island council buildings, and transition 33 percent of electricity expenditure to renewable energy. Additionally, the President committed to planting five million trees, fully implementing the "Maldives 2.0" vision, and developing 10 new resorts designed to directly boost the foreign currency earnings of every citizen.
Furthermore, President Muizzu stated that major decisions would be made, such as the development of airports to ensure that every location is accessible within 30 minutes.
