Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, stated that the government's housing strategy is aimed at broadening residential opportunities across socioeconomic strata. At the centre of the agenda is a strategic effort to engage private sector partners and redirect development priorities beyond the bounds of the Greater Malé region.
Minister Muththalib outlined the policy framework during a foundation stone laying ceremony for a residential development by Rasheed Carpentry and Construction Pvt. Ltd. (RCC) in Kudahuvadhoo, Dhaalu Atoll. With its distinction as the first affordable housing scheme led by a private developer outside the capital region, the project has come to represent a significant milestone in decentralised development. Calling the occasion a "great honour," Minister Muththalib characterised the initiative as emblematic of the administration's core housing philosophy.
Reaffirming the government's commitment, he stated, "The fundamental policy of this government is to provide housing opportunities for every citizen." The minister noted the essential role of private entities in achieving this mandate, pointing to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's strategic direction, which encourages developers to expand housing options in the outer atolls.
The policy, he explained, is designed to accommodate varying levels of financial capacity across Maldivian society. From high-income households to those requiring government support, the framework seeks to ensure that housing solutions reflect the diversity of economic means.
"The government's definition of providing housing opportunities for citizens involves creating opportunities through social housing programmes developed by the state for individuals who lack the financial capacity to purchase property independently," Minister Muththalib clarified. "Additionally, for financially capable individuals whose income allows them to acquire properties, opportunities will be extended through affordable housing projects undertaken in collaboration with the private sector. Finally, for the most affluent segments of society, the strategy includes opportunities to purchase housing units within luxury-standard projects, also developed by the private sector."
In addressing the target of 65,000 housing units, Minister Muththalib noted that the figure should not be interpreted as representing solely state-delivered social housing. He warned that executing a programme of that magnitude exclusively through government resources would result in "enormous expenditure", placing the nation at risk of unsustainable debt.
This assessment was reinforced by demographic realities, as the minister noted that developing housing infrastructure across all 187 inhabited islands, more than 50 of which have populations below 500, would impose significant financial strain, necessitating further borrowing.
Drawing attention to constitutional provisions underpinning the policy, Minister Muththalib affirmed that every Maldivian citizen has the right to establish their life wherever they choose. He urged island communities to uphold this principle, advocating the removal of internal migration barriers. Islands offering improved employment opportunities, quality education, and access to healthcare were identified as key destinations for movement and growth.
Closing his remarks, Minister Muththalib highlighted that development and prosperity are vital to safeguarding national independence, reinforcing the government's call for collective advancement across all regions.