President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said economic growth and infrastructure development alone cannot deliver true independence, stressing the need to preserve the values and identity that define Maldivian society.
Speaking on Public Service Media’s Nation Chat podcast, Muizzu said Maldivians were once known for mutual respect and strong moral values, and warned that development would have limited meaning if these foundations were lost.
He attributed the decline in social respect and conduct partly to political divisions, saying political interests should not come at the expense of sincerity, respect and good manners.
Muizzu said his Administration is working to restore these values through a national campaign promoting respect, which he described as a nationwide movement requiring public participation.
The President also highlighted policies aimed at developing a resilient and capable younger generation, including the National Service programme, expanded educational opportunities and greater access to vocational and technical careers.
He said the Government expects to establish advisory councils on national affairs within the next three months. He also outlined plans for a Youth Parliament and constitutional measures to increase youth and women’s participation in national decision-making.
Muizzu further discussed the Maldives 2.0 digitalisation initiative, which he said aims to reduce corruption and improve the efficiency and accessibility of public services. He said all parties with a state interest would have an opportunity to participate in the initiative.
On the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), Muizzu said he expects the party’s September congress to demonstrate the strength of its internal democratic processes following its recent internal elections.
