The government is advancing efforts to introduce cutting-edge vehicle security measures, aiming to combat theft and vandalism while reinforcing public safety, according to Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen. He reaffirmed the administration's commitment to implementing a comprehensive security framework for the nation’s diverse fleet of land and sea vehicles during an exclusive interview with PSM News.
Minister Ameen stressed the necessity of a structured, technology-driven approach to vehicle security, particularly in the congested streets of Malé. As the capital faces mounting concerns over unsecured vehicles, he stated that the government is turning to modern solutions to address the growing risks.
The rapid increase in motorcycles, cars, and speedboats across Malé, Minister Ameen explained, has heightened concerns over vehicle security. Many owners, he said, lack adequate protection, making enforcement efforts increasingly difficult. He acknowledged the limitations of law enforcement in overseeing each individual vehicle.
"You now see numerous motorcycles, cars, and speedboats, yet their owners lack security today," he stated. "It is not feasible for the police to monitor all these vehicles. Advanced systems exist globally that can notify an owner if their vehicle is moved or taken elsewhere. It is the government's responsibility to introduce that technology and make it available to the citizens."
To address these concerns, Minister Ameen is proposing the adoption of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) systems: an established technology designed to improve vehicle tracking and security. He highlighted RFID's potential to transform enforcement efforts, making oversight more efficient while curbing fraudulent practices.
With this system, Minister Ameen noted that vehicle owners would receive alerts if their property is tampered with or stolen, while law enforcement agencies could more effectively regulate vehicle movement. A critical advantage, he said, is the elimination of counterfeit number plates, a practice that undermines existing security measures.
"If RFID technology is implemented, the use of fake number plates will no longer be possible," the minister explained. "If tampered with or unlawfully removed, alert systems can be set up to notify authorities. Enforcement agencies will also be able to monitor vehicles travelling at excessive or dangerous speeds. This technology is already available globally. The undeniable reality is that it must now be introduced in the Maldives."
Minister Ameen believes RFID technology will provide much-needed security and assurance for vehicle owners across the country. This initiative aligns with ongoing transport infrastructure enhancements, including the 'Malé Fahi' programme, which was developed to tackle persistent issues within the capital's transit systems.
Government statistics show that more than 118,000 vehicles are registered in Malé, with two-wheeled vehicles making up a significant portion: 70 percent of all two-wheeled registrations in the country are concentrated in the capital. By incorporating advanced security solutions, Minister Ameen believes that authorities can mitigate risks, enhance enforcement capabilities, and create a more efficient transport system, ensuring greater safety for vehicle owners nationwide.