President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has advised caution to avoid careless mistakes. He made the statement in a message addressing road accidents, which was shared on social media.
The message was delivered through a two-minute, 13-second video uploaded by renowned animator Yamin Rashid and Cellmin Animation Studio. The video highlights one of the most pressing social issues in the Maldives. It tells the story of a father who sets out on his motorbike to deliver a gift to his son, who lives separately. On the way, the father is hit by a speeding car driven by his own son, the intended recipient of the gift. The video ends with the son in tears, filled with regret for the irreversible tragedy. The powerful depiction emphasises that every life is precious, and it is the responsibility of all road users to prioritise safety.
In his post on social media, President Dr. Muizzu praised Yamin Rasheed for his effort to convey such a crucial message under the slogan "Life is precious, drive safely." He called on everyone to work together to make roads safer. He also reiterated that careless mistakes often do not offer a second chance for correction.
The Maldives has recently witnessed an increase in dangerous road accidents due to negligence and disregard for traffic regulations, leading to several fatalities. The increase in illegal vehicle use and reckless driving, including loud and dangerous behavior on the roads, has exacerbated the situation. In response, President Dr. Muizzu urged authorities to strictly enforce traffic laws and regulations to curb the growing issue in the community.
The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has also intensified road patrols and maintenance efforts. In addition, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, along with other relevant authorities, has launched initiatives aimed at addressing the issue of unregulated vehicles on the roads.