President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that if a permanent solution is not found for illegal expatriates, it could become a threat to the nation’s independence. The President made these remarks during his address at the official Republic Day ceremony at Dharubaaruge this evening.

Referring to expatriates residing illegally in the Maldives, the President acknowledged this long-standing issue has persisted across several Governments. Since taking office, however, his Administration has cracked down on illegal business operations run by expatriates and deported over 4,700 illegal residents – a record number for a single year. He stressed that without a permanent solution, this situation could develop into an internal threat to independence.

Addressing drug abuse, which he identified as the foremost threat to social harmony and peace, the President highlighted significant progress made over the past year. He noted that drug seizures have risen by 60 per cent compared to the previous year, and pledged to enhance capabilities further to combat negative social behaviours in the coming year.

The President also noted successful road safety initiatives, which have led to a 33 per cent reduction in life-threatening accidents compared to the previous year.

Discussing security measures, The President reported a successful year in maintaining law and order throughout the Maldives, including the full implementation of the Immigration Act. He promised that by end-2025, ID card and passport services would be accessible across all Maldivian atolls.

Furthermore, the President emphasised that his Government’s focus extends beyond merely constructing large buildings, stating that “true happiness comes from helping living beings.”

The President acknowledged that upon taking office, he found society lacking in care and attention, which prompted the establishment of compassionate Government policies. Notable successes include the “Komme Kujjakah Aailaaeh” project, which has helped 34 children find homes, the “Haalu Kihineh?” programme, and initiatives to improve elderly citizens’ quality of life. Additionally, his Administration has ended the practice of institutionalising persons with disabilities and is creating employment opportunities for them.

The President concluded by highlighting the ongoing “Madhadu” programme, which provides loans to support women’s empowerment.

The President has pledged to advocate for citizens’ rights in the face of the critical challenges posed by climate change.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu made this commitment while addressing the nation during the official ceremony marking the Republic Day of the Maldives, where he focused on environmental issues and the impact of climate change.

Announcing his intention to attend the COP-29 summit in Azerbaijan, which begins on November 11, the President stated that he aims to secure compensation from those responsible for environmental destruction to address the harm caused.

The President highlighted the country’s ecological fragility, emphasising the need for regional development. He also stressed the importance of recognising climate change as an undeniable reality.

He conveyed that the current Government has implemented several initiatives to protect the environment and advance the nation’s sustainable development goals. The President reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to pursuing development sustainably and outlined key initiatives undertaken over the past year.

One such initiative includes the goal of increasing the share of eco-friendly and clean energy to 33 per cent of the nation’s total energy consumption. To achieve this, he noted that 15 MW of solar power has been generated over the past year, with a 164 MW solar power generation project currently in progress.

In his address, the President also mentioned that alongside ‘Magey Solar Project,’ 400,000 trees have already been planted, contributing towards the goal of planting 5 million trees to make the country greener. He further announced plans to establish a biosphere reserve on three additional islands, complementing the efforts in Baa Atoll. Additionally, he highlighted that 17 islands have been designated for environmental conservation, with initiatives such as the installation of rubbish bins on these islands, the donation of special waste collection vehicles to 99 islands, and other waste management support.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed his commitment to serving the public with sincerity throughout his five-year tenure, focusing on the needs of the people. He made these remarks during an official Republic Day ceremony at Dharubaaruge.

The President observed that, often when leaders are elected, they prioritise defending their Government over serving the people. However, he emphasised that his focus will be on genuine public service during his time in office. He also announced plans to develop a national development master plan for the next 20 years, which will involve consulting citizens on their vision for the future of the Maldives. He stressed that he does not want the country’s development to be shaped solely by political agendas but by a collective effort that includes public participation.

The President underscored the importance of a constitutionally-supported development plan created in collaboration with citizens, professionals, and stakeholders. He pledged to introduce a dedicated law to underpin this initiative and confirmed that work on this legislation is already underway. The aim, he stated, is to shape the country’s future in alignment with the aspirations of its people.

As part of this vision, the President announced plans to establish two Integrated Development Zones in the northernmost and southernmost regions of the country, along with seven urban centres across the seven regions, designed to better serve the wider population.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured that Maldivians will soon witness a golden era of housing, emphasising that the Government is prioritising this sector. He made these remarks during his address at the official Republic Day ceremony at Dharubaaruge this evening.

The President confirmed that his Government will not delay housing initiatives until election time, with the first budget prepared by this Administration being entirely dedicated to housing. He noted that, for the first time in the country’s history, a significant MVR 1.5 billion has been allocated for housing construction. In addition, he announced that starting next year, MVR 1 billion will be allocated annually for housing loans. The Government aims to provide housing for all citizens by the end of the current term.

The President also highlighted the importance of infrastructure and construction, stating that his administration has prioritised the renovation of Government buildings and mosques. He pointed out that progress has been made on stalled projects, such as Velana International Airport and the Thilamale’ Bridge, due to the Government’s efforts. Despite budget constraints this year, the President assured that his Government has successfully completed 38 development projects, with an additional 26 projects currently in progress.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted the significant progress made in the Maldives’ agriculture sector over the past year.

Speaking at the Republic Day function held at Dharubaaruge Sunday evening, the President reflected on the Government’s efforts to diversify the economy, noting the strides made in the agriculture sector.

As such, President Dr Muizzu underscored the establishment of a separate Ministry of Agriculture, fulfilling a major promise of the current Administration. This restructuring has paved the way for more focused efforts and strategic investments in the sector.

Additionally, the President noted that an important agreement has been signed to foster increased investment opportunities in agriculture.

President Dr Muizzu highlighted the priority the Government places on reducing the reliance on food imports, ensuring greater food security for the people of the Maldives.

These developments mark a significant step in the country’s efforts to attain long-term sustainability and self-sufficiency in agriculture, demonstrating the Government’s commitment to the nation’s well-being.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the 2025 budget is structured to promote economic justice by redistributing wealth and addressing the imbalances within the current system. The President made these remarks during his address at the Republic Day celebrations held at Dharubaaruge on Sunday evening.

The President explained that next year’s budget has been shaped in consultation with international financial institutions, incorporating necessary reforms in key areas such as the subsidy system, the Aasandha insurance scheme, the pension system, and state-owned enterprises (SoEs). However, he assured the public that the budget would prioritise better support for the most vulnerable and those in greatest need.

Referring to the Administration’s efforts to secure economic prosperity, the President emphasised that the Government had not resorted to printing money to address the country’s economic challenges, and this would not be a strategy used in the future. He also confirmed that deficit financing through borrowing had been halted.

The President highlighted that over the past year, the Government had started recovering outstanding funds, which has contributed to a reduction in the national debt. He also noted that, through collaboration with the people, all bills under MVR 5 million had been settled. The Government’s aim, he added, is to strengthen the economy by improving the financial well-being of the citizens.

President Dr Muizzu also discussed the Government’s initiatives to diversify and reform the economy, including facilitating the introduction of banking services, establishing the International Finance Services Authority, and exploring the use of digital currency. He further mentioned ongoing efforts to establish free trade agreements with China and Turkey, with plans to pursue similar agreements with India and the UK.

Additionally, the President indicated that the opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport would usher in a new era for tourism in the Maldives, with a target of attracting over 2 million tourists.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted the Government’s focus on Islamic affairs and strengthening Maldivian nationalism over the past year. He made these remarks during his address at the official Republic Day ceremony held at Dharubaaruge on Sunday evening.

In his address, the President noted the significant increase in funding for mosque construction and renovation, with tangible results already evident across the nation. He emphasised the ongoing initiative to train young imams and religious speakers, who are now being deployed in service of the community.

The President detailed how the Government has strengthened its support for citizens observing religious duties, including Zakat, Hajj pilgrimages and fasting. He also highlighted enhanced community engagement in Eid celebrations.

Addressing cultural initiatives, President Dr Muizzu spoke about the establishment of a dedicated Ministry for Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage. The Ministry has appointed national leaders to foster deeper connections between Maldivians, particularly youth, and their native language. He also revealed plans to elevate the status of the Dhivehi language in education by introducing it as a standalone subject in the curriculum, aiming to preserve its beauty for future generations.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the Maldivian Government’s policy must be based on what best serves the interests of Maldivian citizens. He made these remarks whilst speaking at the official Republic Day ceremony held at the Dharubaaruge tonight.

The President emphasised that his Government’s top priority would be to protect the nation’s independence and ensure its sovereignty through a foreign policy that puts the Maldives first and seeks the best outcomes for Maldivians. He noted that this Government will maintain friendly relations with other countries and will not harbour any hostility or jealousy. He also stressed that just as the Maldivian State respects both neighbouring and distant nations, these countries should likewise extend the same right of respect to the Maldivian State.

Speaking of his commitment, the President said there was no greater joy for him than being loyal to the Maldivian nation, and he had proved this to the Maldivian people with pride over the past fifty-one weeks and two days. He highlighted that on 10 May this year, through peaceful and diplomatic negotiations, all foreign military personnel stationed in the country were withdrawn.

The President also addressed the Government’s efforts to reclaim the lost portion of Maldivian waters. He mentioned that a large part of our waters had been given away in broad daylight, contrary to the constitutional system, against the constitution, and without consulting the Parliament. This has necessitated extensive work to resolve the issue. Since this Government came to power, they have stationed a representative from the Attorney General’s Office at the UN, and a team of lawyers has been working continuously on this matter. He added that when recent news emerged about the British government’s handover of Chagos to Mauritius, the Maldivian Government sent an official letter to the British government highlighting the historical connections between the Maldives and Chagos.

Regarding maritime security, the President noted that the Maldives has one of the largest Exclusive Economic Zones, and to monitor this area, an air force has been established within the military, equipped with UAVs for round-the-clock surveillance of this vast maritime territory. He emphasised that the era of outsourcing through agreements with other parties has ended, and through close relationships with other nations, they will build capacity, acquire equipment, and secure training opportunities. He stated that Maldivians will be trained to conduct seabed mapping and surveys.

At tonight’s Republic Day ceremony, the President awarded Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain, the current Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives, with the highest honour for service to Maldivian education, the Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI).

Additionally, the President presented honorary badges and shields to 53 individuals for their long service to the Maldivian state. He also presented special presidential awards to 40 individuals who achieved high academic distinctions.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the weight and responsibility of governing far outweigh any perceived gains or prestige associated with the position. He made this remark in his address to the nation during this year’s Republic Day ceremony.

Reminding the public that Republic Day is a day for the people and that the Republican government is one that serves them, the President explained that he strives to govern according to the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, as well as his father, the late Sheikh Sain Abdul Rahman’s publication, The State, Leaders, Responsibility and the Meaning of Obedience, which serves as his guidebook.

Quoting from the book, the President said, “The head of state or president is a trustee, entrusted by the people to look after their interests for a certain period. He is a lawyer, a servant. Therefore, this should be evident in all his actions and dealings. The people, who are the true owners of the country, should not be humiliated or enslaved, nor should they consent to such treatment.”

In this regard, the President affirmed that the actions of his government have been shaped with this principle in mind. He stated that he has worked for the people by listening to their voices. He declared that the era of persecuting political rivals has ended, and that he would refrain from establishing commissions, instead addressing issues through established systems.

In his address, the President reiterated that he had spent the past 51 weeks and two days working in the service of the people. He concluded by stating that the actions of the coming years would be guided by a commitment to good governance for the benefit of the people.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Highest Honour for Service to Maldives Education to Dr Mohamed Zahir Hussain, Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI),  for his exceptional contributions to the education sector of the Maldives.

The prestigious award was presented during this year’s Republic Day ceremony, recognising Dr Zahir Hussain’s lifelong dedication to advancing education in the nation.

Dr Zahir Hussain’s distinguished career began following his higher education at Al-Azhar University in Egypt, after which he returned to the Maldives and began teaching at Aminiya School. His expertise led him to a series of prominent roles in the education sector, most notably as Minister of Education. During his tenure, Dr Zahir Hussain oversaw significant milestones, including the establishment of the Science Education Centre in 1979 and the implementation of the foundational Basic Education Project.

Serving as Education Minister for over a decade, Dr Zahir Hussain later held roles such as Minister in the President’s Office and Minister of Youth and Sports. In addition, he served as a Member of Parliament, appointed by the President, where he contributed to the nation’s legislative agenda.

An accomplished author, Dr Zahir Hussain was an active member of the committee responsible for translating the Holy Quran into Dhivehi. He also authored several Friday sermons, and contributed articles to the Islamic publication ‘Dheenuge Magu’, issued by the President’s Office. In recognition of his public service and journalism contributions, he received the National Award of Recognition in 1989, the Minivan25 National Award, and the Alimas Galan journalism award.

In 2001, Dr Zahir Hussain earned a PhD in Theology and Philosophy from Malaysia, subsequently receiving the President’s Award for Special Achievement. His dedication was further recognised on 10th November 2008, when he was first awarded the Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI).

Currently serving as Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) since 2019, Dr Zahir Hussain’s remarkable career spans 48 years, with over 32 years dedicated to the development of education in the Maldives.