Provisions to introduce a Smart ID system and establish a National Sovereign Cloud Data Centre have been included in the state budget proposed for next year, Hassan Zareer, the Minister of Finance And Public Enterprises, announced on Thursday.
The proposed 2027 budget incorporates key measures to strengthen the digital infrastructure of the Maldives under the 'Maldives 2.0' initiative launched by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to accelerate public services and enhance administrative transparency. "This budget includes provisions to establish a 'National Sovereign Cloud Data Centre' to ensure the nation's digital security," Minister Zareer explained, noting that a 'Smart ID card' will be introduced "to bring convenience to accessing services."
Parliament received two legislative measures, the Maldives 2.0 Digital Transformation Bill and the Digital Identity Bill, to construct an interoperable ecosystem relying on trusted registries and to establish a Digital Identity Technical Advisory Committee safeguarding data privacy.
Efforts also target urban management. Minister Zareer highlighted plans to deploy an artificial-intelligence-driven 'Smart Traffic Enforcement System' alongside budgetary funding for the Greater Malé Transport Mobility Plan. These key projects, Minister Zareer concluded, will substantially fortify national digital infrastructure, rendering public services far more accessible and efficient for all citizens.