Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim has said that the introduction of ATM services in inhabited islands will save residents from making costly trips seeking basic banking services such as withdrawing and depositing money.
Speaking after inaugurating ATM services in Maarandhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll, Minister Thoriq linked the growth of economic activities in the islands to the availability of banking services.
The minister said the ATM opened in Marandhoo will significantly boost business and trade in the island along with the entire Atoll.
Noting that in the past, residents of Maarandhoo had to take a costly trip to another island to deposit and withdraw even small amounts of money, the Minister said the installation of an ATM in Maarandhoo would put an end to costly trips to neighbouring Dhidhdhooo. He attributed the achievement to the vision of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to establish ATM services in all inhabited islands before the end of this year.
"The people of Marandhoo also need banking services in the island. They have to go to Dhidhdhoo to withdraw or deposit any amount of money. Even the person who has to withdraw MVR100 has to spend a lot more than that on a trip to the ATM,” he explained.
Minister Thoriq also stressed on the need for easy banking services to complement the expected tourism growth in the Atolls.
He said extensive efforts are underway to develop Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani Atolls as prominent tourist destinations. In that regard the government is looking to develop more resorts and tourist establishments in the islands across these three Atolls, the Minister said, adding that easier access to banking services in the islands will help expedite tourism growth.