Minister of Housing, Land, and Construction Development, Dr. Ali Haidhar Ahmed has stated the National Development Plan for the next 20 years will serve as a vital roadmap to guide the Maldives towards a positive trajectory. The minister made these remarks at the launch of discussions on the National Development Plan.
Speaking during discussions, Minister Dr. Ali Haidhar Ahmed highlighted that, as advised by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, broad participation, consultation, and feedback from all relevant stakeholders and the public will be actively sought during the formulation of the National Development Plan.
Additionally, a National Development Act Bill will be drafted and presented to Parliament during this process to grant the plan legal authority, facilitating the realisation of key policies, priorities, and objectives outlined in the plan. An amendment to the Constitution has also been proposed to provide the necessary powers for sustainable implementation of the plan. The minister noted that the plan will assess living conditions, identify challenges faced by various sectors, and propose improvements based on evidence and information.
The formulation of the plan will encompass measures for social and economic development, environmental protection, and mitigation of the adverse effects of global climate change. Additionally, efforts to strengthen the law enforcement sector will be addressed.
The minister further emphasised that the plan will account for emerging challenges and issues, exploring ways to foster innovation, communication, and technological advancement while ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens, irrespective of age or social class. Implementation, monitoring, and evaluation frameworks will also be embedded in the plan.
Minister Dr. Haidhar stressed that a vision is incomplete without extensive consultation with all stakeholders across the nation. The future of the Maldives, he said, is shaped by the engagement of government and state institutions, local councils, the private sector, civil society, the education sector, workers, political parties, and tomorrow’s leaders. The consultative process is thus of utmost importance.
The government aims to complete the plan within a year, and the minister encouraged every citizen to contribute their thoughts, suggestions, and insights. Opportunities will be available for public input through various forums, including avenues for advice, guidance, and ideas.
The minister also expressed that this endeavour aims to build a more prosperous and contented Maldives.