President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised that it is his responsibility to ensure proper support and benefits for soldiers and their families.
He made the remarks during an official ceremony marking the 134th Anniversary of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
The President described the Maldives National Defence Force as one of the country’s most respected institutions, and said its efforts to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty must be valued. He said efforts to improve the MNDF have continued since he took office and will continue in the future.
The President said that with the development of MNDF command centres across the country, soldiers will be allowed to be permanently based at the centres closest to where their families reside. The size of the military force has to be increased to achieve this, and the budget adjustments for this increase have now been factored in and work is now underway, he added.
Acknowledging that some MNDF laws and regulations require reform, President Muizzu indicated plans to revise regulations related to rank limitations, career progression, and continued service for long-serving personnel. He also announced plans to amend MNDF retirement rules.
On housing, the President said it is a basic right of every citizen, and that more housing opportunities will be provided for military personnel under the government’s housing policy. Construction of a modern housing project in the Bandeyri Koshi Barracks area is expected to begin within eight months, he said.
He further announced additional development of Girifushi, the MNDF training island, as well as expansion of training facilities in the north and south of the country. He also pledged increased foreign training opportunities for MNDF personnel.
The President said these initiatives would be implemented sustainably.