Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib has stated that the government has begun efforts to renovate buildings to make them more accessible for people with special needs. He made the statement at the first meeting of the Aha Forum, which has been launched by the government to directly address the public concerns.
At the forum, members of the audience expressed concern over the difficulties in receiving services from government buildings for people with special needs.
In response, Minister Muththalib said the condition of the government buildings is being assessed, highlighting the challenges in renovating the existing buildings due to their current state. He said the entrance, exit, elevators and restrooms of the buildings are being examined and the buildings that can facilitate accessibility will be identified and renovated as soon as possible.
Minister Muththalib affirmed that the new government buildings will be designed for accessibility with changes to the building code while existing buildings will be replaced.
Also at the forum, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed said mosques will also be made accessible to people with special needs. The minister said that the ministry will work with the Male' City Council to implement the changes before the beginning of Ramadan.
Additionally, Minister of Social and Family Development Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham said that facilitating services for people with special needs is a high priority for the Cabinet. She also said that a more accessible work environment will be established for people with special needs at government offices.
Furthermore, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdull Rafiu said that sports facilities will also be made accessible to people with special needs.