President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday announced major development projects for Maalhendhoo, Noonu Atoll including the much needed shore protection and land reclamation for the island.
The visit to Malhendhoo is part of the president’s official tour of 13 islands in Noonu Atoll, aimed at advancing development efforts and engaging with local communities.
Addressing the residents of Maalhendhoo, President Dr Muizzu assured that the government is putting in every effort for the development of the island, reaffirming his commitment to fulfilling his electoral pledges.
The President admitted to challenges faced to implement development projects throughout the country but assured that most of these challenges have been resolved paving the way to the commencement of infrastructure development projects.
He highlighted land erosion as one of the most pressing concerns for Maalhendhoo, pledging to kickstart the shore protection project next month along with the development of a jetty on the west side of the island.
In addition, the President also acknowledged the land shortage in the island which has hindered housing and economic activity in Maalhendhoo, pledging to include a land reclamation project in next year’s State budget without compromising on the natural beauty of the island.
President Dr Muizzu said the Atoll Council’s legal challenge has prevented the government from integrating Tholhendhoo into the jurisdiction of Maalhendhoo.
“The court case was still pending when I checked a few months ago and just before this trip. The Atoll Council had filed the case. The case has stalled as the Atoll Council had not appeared for any of the hearings. So I have asked the Attorney General to find a legal way for the government to facilitate the integration of the island,” he explained.
The President vowed to continue the island’s school and the recreation centre project without any interruptions, adding that additional medical equipment has been mobilised to strengthen healthcare services in Maalhendhoo.
Groundbreaking of Maalhendhoo Recreation Centre
President Dr Muizzu, during his visit, witnessed the groundbreaking of the Maalhendhoo Fitness and Recreation Centre.
The project is being carried out under the supervision of the Fenaka Corporation Limited along with a new gym in the island with both projects scheduled to be completed before the end of the year.
The government has earmarked the development of fitness and recreation centres in all parts of the country before the end of next year, aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles under the wider objective of building a healthier society.
Since assuming office, the administration has accelerated the completion of previously stalled projects and launched numerous new ones.
President Meets Community Leaders to Accelerate Development
Prior to meeting residents, President Dr Muizzu met with members of the Maalhendhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions to discuss the island’s key developmental priorities.
During the discussions, Council members emphasised the pressing need for implementing shore protection measures and stressed the importance of constructing a surrounding wall around the turf field.
The members expressed their desire for the school building to be completed promptly and for the school to shift to a single-session system. They also discussed the challenges of establishing facilities to improve health services on the island. The Council urged the President to tackle the issue of limited land availability and to integrate Tholhendhoo into the jurisdiction of Maalhendhoo.
In response, President Dr Muizzu stated that the issues raised by the Council would be reviewed. He also shared updates on ongoing projects, with further details provided by cabinet ministers and heads of state-owned enterprises.