Malé City Council has decided to refer a proposal to its Social Services Committee to identify residents requiring special assistance and improve access to support services.

The initiative aims to develop plans to increase their participation in community life and build a safer, more inclusive city.

The decision was unanimously approved by 13 councillors at the Council’s 24th regular public meeting of its fifth term.

Mayor Adam Azim said studies indicate that around 10 per cent of the Maldivian population are persons with disabilities. He described ensuring their well-being and inclusion as a major responsibility of the Council.

He said the Council had repeatedly requested data on these individuals from the Ministry of Gender but had been unable to obtain it.

Azim proposed collecting the information through field visits by councillors to their respective constituencies, stressing that an inclusive society requires an environment where persons with disabilities can live comfortably and independently.

All councillors who spoke at the meeting supported the initiative, highlighting its potential benefits for both residents requiring special assistance and the wider community.