Parliamentarian Moosa Siraj has introduced a bill proposing amendments to the Maldivian Land Act, incorporating modern modifications. The bill initiated discussions among parliament members after its proposal by Siraj.
The proposed bill outlines regulations for determining land types, allocation for different purposes, and distribution to ministries and individuals. It stipulates that national and public land policies will be formulated by the president with the advice and recommendations of parliament members.
Key provisions of the bill include the appointment of a Registrar of Land by the Ministry of Housing, Land, and Urban Development, establishment of a Land and Survey Authority, and appointment of a Surveyor General.
Regarding land distribution, the bill allocates land for ministries, freeholding, and leasing, specifying permissible uses such as residential, economic, industrial, social, environmental, and governmental activities. It addresses various aspects including land rights, plot allocation, leasing, mortgage, sale, transfer by inheritance, ownership, and rights transfer.
Highlighting the outdated nature of the current Land Act from 2002, Moosa Siraj emphasised the need for modern amendments to address contemporary challenges. He stressed the inclusion of provisions for land surveys and valuation policies to mitigate issues related to fluctuating land values.
Siraj urged fellow parliament members to support the bill, citing its importance. However, members of the opposition have expressed reservations, advocating against its passage.