The Local Government Ministry has launched the Happiness Index to assess and measure the happiness scale of Maldivian communities.
At a special ceremony held at Sultan Park, the official logo for the initiative, "Happy Maldives," was unveiled.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed graced the event, with the First Lady expressing her pleasure at the launch of the Happiness Index.
In her remarks, the First Lady highlighted the significance of happiness in national policymaking, and said that many countries measure happiness to guide governance.
She said that happiness is defined as the prosperity and comfort of the heart and mind, and includes fulfillment of basic necessities, safe environments, housing, and strong social relationships.
Additionally, she highlighted the importance of language, culture, and arts in fostering happiness and said that Maldivian literature, proverbs, and media have historically contributed to public well-being.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed launches the 'Happiness Index -- Photo: President's Office
Local Government Minister Adam Shareef said that Maldivian lifestyles have evolved significantly over the past thirty years.
While development projects have brought progress, he also acknowledged the negative social impact of issues such as drug abuse in various islands.
He stressed the need for a structured framework to analyze happiness levels across different islands, ensuring that the index accurately reflects each community's situation.
To support this initiative, local councils will collaborate in data collection, and efforts will be made to familiarize them with the index. Minister Shareef also said that awards will be given for islands that achieve high rankings in the Happiness Index.
Maldives Islamic University is conducting research on the happiness scale, and various activities are planned to enhance the well-being of citizens across the country.
Minister Shareef said Maldives can be a happy place only if the whole society works together in collaboration.