Government has decided to transfer uninhabited islands to support their development. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s policy aims to provide all councils with access to forest land.

Local Governance Minister Adam Shareef shared on social media that President Dr Muizzu has approved the transfer of specific islands to councils that submitted proposals. R. Neyo will be handed over to the R. Inguraidhoo Council, Dh. Minimasgali and Fenfushi to the Dh. Atoll Council, and L. Bodumaabulhali to the L. Maavah Council.

The process of transferring these lands will be carried out by both the Finance Ministry and the Local Government Ministry. President Dr Muizzu has said that under the existing regulations, councils will be able to acquire forest land, even if it isn’t adjacent to their islands.

Previously, 25 islands were identified for leasing to councils, with the goal of providing them with forest land for generating income. Initially, some islands were gazetted as a cautious step, but every village will eventually receive a forest land resource to support local development.