Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has revealed that the previous government had awarded projects to companies at higher prices.

Speaking at a meeting held at the Social Center this morning to meet the people of the HDh. Hanimaadhoo as part of the President's ongoing visit to the region, Minister Shiyam said MVR 170 billion had been used as state budget in the five years of the previous government.

He said most of the projects by the previous government have been stalled and field work on some of the projects have not been started yet.

"The cost of all the projects have been three or four times higher," Shiyam said, adding that the island's international airport project was also awarded at throwaway prices (USD 130 million), and that nine domestic airports could be built at that cost.

Minister Shiyam said the current government wants to do things for the people at a faster pace.

He further said that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is working closely with the people and the parliament should be given to the government to expedite the government's projects.

"The opposition party's philosophy is to obstruct the government, not let the government function," Shiyam said, explaining the reason for the government's need to win parliament majority.

Shiyam further said that the government will also develop the fishing industry and make it the highest revenue generating sector in the state and generate the maximum number of jobs.