President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced the initiation of a 20-year National Development Masterplan. The project, which holds significant legal authority, was recently endorsed by the Cabinet and marks a major step in fulfilling a key presidential pledge.
In a video message shared on social media, the President detailed the plan's objectives and the aim to complete it within a year. President Muizzu notes that the Masterplan is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for the long-term development of the Maldives, incorporating the voices and decisions of its citizens. According to him, the goal is to ensure that the plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the people while fostering national growth.
The formulation of this Masterplan will be an inclusive process. The President emphasised that consultations will extend beyond government circles to include political parties, associations, experts, and other relevant stakeholders. Community engagement will be a key component of the plan's development. This collaborative effort aims to create a development strategy that has broad support and reflects a wide range of perspectives. The President anticipates completing the Masterplan within a year, with legal backing provided by a specially designed law.
Highlighting the significance of this initiative, the President stressed the importance of building trust and confidence among the people. "The country needs to be developed with the full participation of the people," the President stated. He also underscored the plan's role in safeguarding and advancing the future of the Maldives, driven by a spirit of nationalism.
To ensure the Masterplan's effectiveness, the President plans to seek assistance from both domestic and international experts. Foreign expertise will play a crucial role in shaping the plan, which aims to balance local needs with global best practices. The President envisions this plan as a cornerstone for the nation's progress, benefiting current and future generations.
The President announced that discussions would soon begin at the island level, involving civil society groups, sports figures, political parties, and other respected individuals. This grassroots approach is intended to gather diverse insights and foster a sense of collective ownership of the Masterplan. The President notes that the development of the National Development Masterplan represents a significant step toward achieving long-term national goals and fulfilling presidential promises.