President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has concluded a two-day official tour of Fuvahmulah City and Addu City, accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and senior Government officials.
During the visit, the President met with City Councils, Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), and residents to discuss local priorities, inaugurate projects, and announce new initiatives across key sectors.
1. Fuvahmulah City – A New Chapter in Development
Major Announcements & Inaugurations
- 16 new classrooms with laboratories to be built for Fuvahmulaku School.
- Maldives National University (MNU) campus and TVET Centre to be established.
- Tertiary-level hospital project progressing under Saudi Fund; construction to begin May/June 2026.
- CT scan service inaugurated, already benefiting around 90 patients.
- 400-unit housing project resumed after resolving delays; 75 new housing units contracted under the pledge to deliver 900 units during this administration.
- Island designated for WAMCO to manage waste disposal for the four southernmost atolls, initiating a long-term environmental waste management plan.
- New terminal for Fuvahmulah Airport announced.
- Electricity upgrade: FENAKA to install a new generator before Ramadan; transition to renewable energy planned.
- Sport and city-hotel infrastructure projects reaffirmed as priorities.
President’s Key Remarks
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Fuvahmulah’s development—one that fulfills the hopes and aspirations of its people.”
“Every project launched here will be completed; this is our commitment to you.”
Meeting with Fuvahmulah City Council and WDC
- Council identified urgent needs: water and electricity stability, completion of the new powerhouse, and construction of a central Government office complex.
- Requested allocation of a share of TGST and GST revenue to the Council to support tourism-driven growth.
- Sought progress on airport expansion, waste management, and housing solutions.
- President and Ministers provided detailed responses and pledged uninterrupted continuation of all ongoing projects.
On the Harmonized Pay Structure
- President assured that salary increments under the new National Pay Framework would continue expanding sector-wide.
- Minimum wage set at MVR 7,000, with pension benefits increasing accordingly.
- Adjustments for remaining sectors to take effect in 2026.
“This Government belongs to the people. Every decision we make—including pay harmonization—is designed to serve public interest and long-term stability.”
2. Addu City – Strengthening the Southern Hub
Hithadhoo, Maradhoo, Maradhoo Feydhoo, and Feydhoo
Major Announcements
- 19 development agreements signed across the four districts.
- Power grid to be upgraded to 30 MW capacity.
- Road development to be completed in one phase for efficiency.
- Creation of new jobs through upcoming tourism ventures.
- Shangri-La Villingili Resort reopening confirmed for 31 December 2025.
- Hankede 1,000-bed integrated tourism project and Asseyri Project to progress soon.
- 205 national-level development agreements signed, including private-sector partnerships.
President’s Key Remarks
“Addu’s development is not a promise—it is a responsibility we are already fulfilling. Equal access to quality services will be ensured for every citizen, wherever they live.”
“Reliable power and roads are fundamental to Addu’s progress. These issues will be resolved in full.”
Addu City Council Consultation
- Council raised critical issues:
- Urgent need for permanent power and water solutions, and service extension to tourism zones.
- Road flooding and lighting deficiencies.
- Price parity for fuel and construction materials with Malé.
- Staff shortages in security and policing.
- Activation of the Cath lab for local healthcare under Aasandha.
- Expansion of Gan International Airport services and development of a tourist beach in Hulhudhoo/Meedhoo reclamation area.
- President assured prompt Government action and directed Ministers to address each issue.
3. Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo – Advancing Connectivity and Essential Services
Major Announcements
- Bridge connecting Hulhudhoo–Meedhoo–Hithadhoo:
- Chinese firm contracted under a US$ 1 million agreement to design three bridge options.
- Construction expected to commence next year once design selection is finalized.
- Road development, waste management, and banking services progressing equally on both islands.
- Passport and ID card services inaugurated in Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo.
- Agreements signed for:
- Upgrading Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo Health Centres to hospitals.
- Building the new Seenu Atoll School.
President’s Key Remarks
“This bridge will not only connect islands—it will connect opportunities, families, and futures. Construction will begin within the next year.”
4. Gan – Inauguration of the MNDF Air Corps’ First Air Station
Event Highlights
- President inaugurated the MNDF Air Corps Gan Air Station, accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and senior military officials.
- The facility includes an Operations Room and Simulator Room.
President’s Key Remarks
“A strong and capable defense force is the foundation of national stability and prosperity.”
“Our 2026 Budget includes provisions to expand military infrastructure in Malé and enhance readiness nationwide.”
“Next year will focus on defense modernization, including new aircraft for the Air Corps and advanced cyber capabilities.”
Additional Announcements
- New training facilities to be established at Gan.
- Reclamation and development projects underway in Girifushi, with plans for Maafilaafushi.
- Expansion of the National Service Programme next year.
- Military investments tied to the Government’s vision of making Maldives a developed nation by 2040.
5. Shangri-La Villingili Resort – Reopening in December 2025
Visit Summary
- President toured the Shangri-La Villingili Resort, accompanied by Ministers and MPs.
- Resort management briefed the President on refurbishments to villas, restaurants, and facilities.
- The luxury 284-bed property, closed since 2020, is set to reopen on 31 December 2025.
“Reviving key tourism icons like Shangri-La marks renewed confidence in Addu’s economy and the Maldives’ resilience.”
Conclusion
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s southern tour marked a major milestone in the Government’s nationwide development agenda—combining new investments, infrastructure expansion, and community engagement.
He reaffirmed that all pledged projects will be completed and that no region will be left behind in the Maldives’ journey toward equitable, sustainable growth.
