The Minister of Local Government Adam Shareef Umar on Sunday has requested to extend awards to the islands that excel in achieving objectives of the Maldives National Happiness Index.
He also confirmed that the index will be implemented with the collaboration of local councils.
The Happiness Index is a national framework of analyzing the level of contentment and happiness among Maldivian citizens using various metrics.
During a special ceremony held on Sunday regarding the efforts led under the Happiness Index, the minister focused on the various aspects that impact the happiness of Maldivian citizens.
“The hopes and aspirations for a dignified and happy life is shattered with the upsetting reality of housing constraints and inflating expenditure, for which [people] are required to expand their work portfolio to make ends meet while sacrificing their time with family, and losing all balance of a well-maintained lifestyle. These are key factors to consider when the Happiness Index is developed,” the minister said.
He further stressed that the index should be developed in a comprehensive manner through a framework that enhances collecting data from all residential islands.
While noting that the work on the index will proceed with the collaboration of local councils, the minister said awareness programs regarding the initiative is expected to launch soon.
The minister also emphasized the importance of recognizing islands that achieve milestones in realizing the targets of the index.
“The islands that achieve under the Happiness Index should be recognized with awards in my opinion,” he added.
He also thanked the stakeholders and parties who provided support in the development of the index.
Local Government Authority is helming the development efforts in collaboration with multiple partners, while the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) is extending technical and professional assistance.
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Celebrating and disclosing updates of Happiness Index is a widely recognized practice globally.