Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer underscored the importance of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's visits to the outer islands, noting that these engagements enable direct communication with local communities. This interaction, according to Minister Zameer, facilitates the administration's developmental initiatives and expedites project implementation.
Minister Zameer made these remarks during an interview with PSM News while accompanying President Dr Muizzu on his tour of several islands in Raa Atoll. The President commenced his three-day tour on Tuesday.
Before his departure, President Dr Muizzu held extensive deliberations with his cabinet, focusing on the needs of the people and the opportunities to address them, Minister Zameer noted. According to him, these visits allow the president to directly enquire about and listen to the concerns of local communities and to share information about the administration's plans for these areas. This direct engagement, he asserted, accelerates fulfilling the pledges outlined in the administration's manifesto.
Minister Zameer also highlighted the support and cooperation provided by local island councils during President Dr Muizzu’s visits, emphasising that the current visit to Raa Atoll holds significant importance. "President Dr Muizzu's accompaniment by ministers facilitates the swift implementation and enforcement of the manifesto," he stated.
Minister Zameer also highlighted that several infrastructure development projects, which had been delayed or suspended, have resumed over the past year. He assured that, based on resource availability, the administration will prioritise the significant projects outlined in the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP).
Referring to the administration's reform agenda, Minister Zameer noted the implementation of a bulk procurement policy to ensure the availability of resources necessary for infrastructure projects. This responsibility has been assigned to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) and the State Trading Organisation (STO). According to Minister Zameer, MTCC is tasked with procuring rock boulders and other materials needed for coastal protection work during emergencies.
As part of the tour of Raa Atoll, President Dr Muizzu is set to visit Vaadhoo, An’golhitheemu, Hulhudhuffaaru, Innamaadhoo, Kinolhas, Maakurathu, Maduvvari, Fainu, Rasgetheemu, Rasmaadhoo, and Un’goofaaru.