President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has outlined an ambitious plan to transform Sultan Park in Malé, incorporating modern technological advancements along with new sports and recreational facilities.
The announcement came during his address at the reopening ceremony of the newly redesigned Izzuddin Jetty. President Dr Muizzu highlighted the neglect and lack of renovation that Sultan Park has suffered in recent years, prompting the government to decide to assume jurisdiction over the park to ensure its comprehensive redevelopment and ongoing maintenance.
Currently overseen by the Malé City Council, the management and operation of Sultan Park will fall under government purview soon, President Dr Muizzu stated. He detailed the administration's plan to redesign and rejuvenate the park within the next six months. The proposed upgrades will preserve the Maldivian identity and include features aimed at children and youth, enhanced by technological innovations, according to the president. These improvements will offer children new learning opportunities and foster an environment conducive to family activities, he added.
The redevelopment project will extend to the surrounding areas, including the Izzuddin Jetty and Republic Square. President Dr Muizzu also disclosed plans to introduce recreational facilities such as a bowling alley.
The last major redevelopment of Sultan Park took place under President Dr Muizzu's tenure as housing minister in a previous administration, when the park was renamed 'Rasrani Bageecha' and equipped with numerous new amenities and recreational activities for children. In the past five years, the park has seen no significant updates, aside from the reversion of its name to 'Sultan Park.'
Expressing concern over the current state of Sultan Park, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed his commitment to revitalising this important community space.