President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that patriotism takes precedence over political divisions, noting that political currents pale in comparison to patriotism. He made the statement addressing the residents of the Velidhoo, as part of his ongoing tour of the inhabited islands of Noonu Atoll.
In his address, the President said that elected officials need to lend their support to fully actualising developmental plans, adding that their political affiliations should not be a hindrance to their office. The developmental plans, he said, would reach their full potential with the full support of Parliament Members and Councillors. He appealed to elected officials to lend their support, despite conflicting opinions.
The President also underscored the importance of preserving Maldivian identity and unity. Reiterating that true patriotism entails placing the nation above individual interests, the President asserted that the preservation of the Maldives’ dignity and stability for future generations can only be achieved through the prioritisation of national interests and the revitalisation of patriotic spirit. He further emphasised that patriotism must constitute the nexus underpinning true development.
The President said that no matter how many projects are implemented, the desired change cannot be achieved without nurturing the minds of the people. Comprehensive, meaningful development can only be brought about from conscious decisions made by oneself for the nation’s benefit, he said.
“Political current has no meaning in the face of patriotism. Maldivians should prioritise Maldivian roots, the Islamic faith, the Dhivehi language, national identity and cultural uniqueness. The development of infrastructure such as roads, harbours, hospitals hold little meaning and will bring no meaningful change without these,” the President said.
The President also stated that he would not discriminate between islands based on population size. Even for islands with smaller populations, the happiness, wellbeing and prosperity of its residents is what truly matters, he said.
Key Announcements for Velidhoo
Moving on to pledges for Velidhoo, the President announced that a seaplane platform will be established in the island, with operations expected to begin by January next year.
The President noted that while a domestic airport is planned for Vihafaru, dedicated seaplane services to Velidhoo are also in progress. He further revealed that sea ambulance services will commence in January as well, with the vessels to be stationed on the island.
President Dr Muizzu also reflected on the various developmental initiatives launched during his visit to Velidhoo, the most populous island in the atoll. While the practical work commenced on several key development initiatives on the island earlier that day, including a new hospital, a Community-Based Rehabilitation Centre, and a land reclamation project for a boatyard, a separate groundbreaking ceremony was also held for the construction of a new police station. The President assured that these projects will progress at rapid pace and without delay
The President also responded to a petition delivered to him, which bore 600 signatures and raised concerns about the island's harbour. He assured residents that the issues would be addressed in consultation with the relevant technical agencies to implement the changes desired by the residents and pave the way for their satisfaction. Should there be budgetary constraints this year, he stated the project would be included in the following year's plans.
Looking ahead, the President announced several new projects for the upcoming year, including housing developments and the addition of classrooms and facilities at the island's school. He further stated that an agreement will be signed in September for the development of a futsal stadium and a multi-sports facility. President Dr Muizzu reiterated that the focus of the administration was to take a citizen-centric approach to development.
Groundbreaking for Velidhoo’s Drug Rehabilitation Centre
As part of the President’s visit to Velidhoo, the foundation stone for Velidhoo’s Drug Rehabilitation Centre was laid by the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, and the contractor, Road Development Corporation (RDC) Limited’s Managing Director, Ali Zuhair.
These centres are aimed at providing modern support and treatment for those recovering from drug addition. This service is a currently mainly available only in the Male’ area. Although there are similar centres across the island, they do not provide modern services. The government aims to offer these services through a robust and comprehensive heath system with the establishment of these centres.
Groundbreaking of Velidhoo Hospital
The groundbreaking of Velidhoo’s new hospital was also held on Wednesday, with the President officiating the ceremony. The foundation stone of the hospital was laid by Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim, and RDC’s Managing Director, Ali Zuhair, as well as Velidhoo Council President, Athif Hussain.
The hospital project is part of the government’s broader efforts to expand health services in populous islands. The hospital project was handed over to the Road Development Corporation (RDC) Limited on 29 March this year for USD 7 million, to be completed within 540 days.
Launch of Velidhoo Land Reclamation Project
The practical work of the island’s land reclamation project was also launched as part of the President’s visit to Velidhoo. The project, which aims to dredge 2.7 hectares of land for a boatyard, was inaugurated by the Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib.
The Velidhoo land reclamation project will be implemented by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The company will utilise MTCC’s largest dredger, Mahaa Jarraaf for the project.
The land reclamation project aims to increase economic opportunities for the island’s residents. The reclaimed area will be used for boat haul-out services and fibre worlds, a niche commercial industry currently practiced in only a few islands across the Maldives.
Groundbreaking of Velidhoo’s new police building
The construction of a police station in Velidhoo was also launched as part of the President’s visit. The foundation stone of the police station was laid by the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan. Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen, Road Development Corporation (RDC)’s Managing Director Ali Zuhair and Velidhoo Council President were also present at the ceremony.
The police station will be constructed by the Road Development Corporation (RDC) Limited. This project is part of the President’s efforts to expand police presence to all inhabited islands of the Maldives. The government aims to achieve this vision over the next two years. Efforts towards this has already been launched in several islands. The government believes that the establishment of police services in all islands of the Maldives will greatly assist the government's efforts to build a safe and peaceful society.
Meeting with Velidhoo Council, WDC to discuss development priorities
Earlier on Wednesday, President Muizzu met with members of the Velidhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of several local institutions to discuss the island’s key development priorities.
During the meeting held at Council Secretariat, council members addressed the issues of erosion, the need for a designated recreational island to facilitate activities such as picnics for residents, and the challenges faced by residents in engaging in various sports due to the limited availability of a single football field. Additionally, they called for the expedited implementation of the road development project. Emphasis was placed on addressing power shortages and the lack of water and sanitation infrastructure in newly urbanised areas. The meeting also addressed the challenges faced by students due to the lack of adequate space at Velidhoo School.
In response, President Dr Muizzu assured attendees that the issues raised would be thoroughly assessed. He also provided updates on ongoing projects, with further details shared by cabinet ministers and senior officials from state-owned enterprises.
Presidential Tour Covers Inhabited Islands Across Noonu Atoll
Velidhoo is the eleventh destination on President Muizzu's four-day official visit to Noonu Atoll. Upon his arrival, the President was welcomed by the island Council, Women’s Development Committee (WDC), government staff as well as residents of the islands.
The tour, which spans 21–24 July, includes stops at Hen’badhoo, Maafaru, Holhudhoo, Lhohi, Kudafari, Ken'dhikulhudhoo, Velidhoo, Manadhoo, Magoodhoo, Maalhendhoo, Miladhoo, Fodhdhoo, and Landhoo.