President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the new Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) building in Villimalé, marking a significant step in strengthening the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard's search and rescue capabilities.
The new facility, which serves as the national hub for coordinating maritime and aviation rescue operations, is designed to improve emergency response efforts aimed at protecting lives, vessels and property during incidents at sea and in the air.
Construction of the building was funded by the Government of Japan. Although the foundation stone was laid on 23 June 2022, progress was delayed until President Muizzu assumed office and directed that the project be fast-tracked as part of his administration's efforts to enhance the operational capacity of the MNDF Coast Guard.
The centre features a state-of-the-art operations room, as well as classrooms and an auditorium dedicated to training and developing Coast Guard personnel.
The project was implemented with the support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), while Australia provided the centre's technological equipment.
Speaking at the inauguration, MNDF officials said the new facility will significantly strengthen the country's ability to respond to maritime emergencies and improve the protection of lives and property. They also expressed appreciation to President Muizzu for prioritising the completion of the project and expanding the Coast Guard's capabilities.
The Maldives' maritime rescue service originated under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), with the country's first rescue coordination centre established in Villimalé in January 2006. The facility was officially renamed the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre on 27 July 2012.
According to the MNDF, the MRCC and regional area commands have responded to 3,713 emergencies over the past decade, successfully rescuing 8,359 people, vessels and properties, underscoring the vital role the centre plays in safeguarding the nation.
