President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that as the goals of Maldives 2.0 are achieved, citizens will have greater opportunities to access services and generate income while remaining in their home islands.

Speaking on Decentralisation Day, the President extended greetings to the Maldivian people and public servants, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to strengthening decentralised governance and delivering services closer to communities.

He noted that the Maldives’ dispersed island geography has historically required a decentralised system of governance, a practice reflected in past administrations and official records. With the current Constitution in place, he said, further opportunities have emerged to enhance this system.

Over the past two years, the Government has expanded decentralised services by delegating more powers to councils and strengthening public trust. Key achievements include enabling councils to generate more income, formalising the status of Women’s Development Committees, adjusting salaries for council employees, and providing additional resources and modern administrative buildings.

The President also highlighted ongoing efforts to develop sports facilities and public parks across islands and to complete water and sewerage services in all inhabited islands. Major infrastructure projects — including road development and harbour expansion — are being carried out simultaneously nationwide.

Consultations have been held across all islands in preparation for the National Development Master Plan. The President added that work is ongoing to address national challenges such as undocumented migration, drug trafficking, and gang-related crimes, with the aim of finding lasting solutions for communities across the country.