Approved document reveals plans to use propaganda to quell opposition to foreign land ownership

The Cabinet has approved a proposal submitted by the Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, to allow foreign ownership of Maldivian land. However, the move has drawn sharp criticism after it was revealed that the plan includes a public relations strategy designed to manage and counter public concerns regarding these changes.

In September 2025, the Cabinet reached this decision based on a proposal to establish a legal and administrative framework aimed at increasing foreign investment in the Maldives.

Under this decision, the primary measures to be undertaken include amending the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives and drafting new legislation to allow foreign nationals to own real estate property.

Furthermore, the government has decided to draft a Real Estate Development Act and establish a specialized mechanism to resolve property-related disputes. The initiatives also include amending the Immigration Act to facilitate the issuance of special residential visas based on investment thresholds, as well as the appointment of a Registrar of Properties.

To implement these government policies, the Cabinet has also decided to establish a new agency named the "Property Regulatory Authority of Maldives."

Notably, the approved paper stipulates the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive public relations (PR) strategy to address potential public concerns arising from the enforcement of these policies. This move is viewed as a measure to mitigate public dissatisfaction and criticism that may follow the decision.

Religious scholar Sheikh Zamzam Farish has strongly criticized the government regarding this issue. The Sheikh stated that after discussions with senior government officials, it has been confirmed that the document allowing foreign land ownership is authentic. He further asserted that the points outlined in the document clearly indicate that the Ras Male' project is not being conducted in the best interests of the Maldivian people.

Sheikh Zamzam Farish further stated that there is a completely different agenda behind the Ras Male' project. He argued that otherwise, there would be no reason for an official government document to explicitly state the need for propaganda to "subdue" the public.

Many are expressing concern on social media regarding the potential impact this could have on Maldivian land ownership and national security.