President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his commitment to equitable island development, stating that population size will not determine the allocation of resources and services. He made the remark while addressing the residents of Fehendhoo during his visit to the island as part of an ongoing tour of Baa Atoll.
In his address, the President said the government is deliver the pledges made in consultation with the people during the presidential election. Many of these pledges are now ready to move into the practical implementation stage.
The President noted that the highest current priority is the completion of the stalled water and sewerage project on the island. The project was withdrawn from its previous contractor due to complications, and has now been reassigned to the Male’ Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC), the President said. While the resources and equipment necessary for the project are now in place, the project will reach completion soon, the President assured.
Highlighting the government’s policy of serving communities regardless of size, the President noted that Fehendhoo has a registered population of 323, with just 150 residents currently living on the island. He acknowledged that this has made it challenging to recruit teachers for the island’s school.
The President said that in order to fulfil the promises made for the education sector for Fehendhoo, he is working hard to arrange teachers to stay established in the island, with priority given to appointing teachers for students studying in Grade 6 and above. He added that he would do whatever is necessary to fulfil his commitments in the education sector.
On health sector, the President revealed that a new building and laboratory have been announced for the Fehendhoo Health Centre. The work will begin later this year, he said.
Discussions with Community Leaders
Earlier in the day, President Muizzu met with the Fehendhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions to address the island’s pressing development needs. The meeting was held at Fehendhoo School.
During the discussions, council members highlighted several urgent issues, including the island’s erosion problem, the need to level the futsal court, the construction of a modern-standard volleyball court, and the allocation of land. They also noted that the island’s jetty had tilted to one side, emphasising the need for an immediate solution. In addition, the council requested that the water and sewerage works be expedited.
Other concerns included the need for a new mosque and the challenges posed by having only one imam on the island.
The President assured that he would look into the matters raised and, through Cabinet Ministers and senior officials from State-Owned Enterprises present at the meeting, provided updates on ongoing projects for the island.
While addressing island residents, the President detailed the plans for Fehendhoo in the sports and recreation field, and said the construction of a fully equipped stadium, a volleyball court, and a fitness and recreation centre will commence this year. An outdoor gym and children’s park will also be established, he announced.
The President pledged his commitment build a mosque for the island’s, and said the funds for the project will be included in next year's budget. He also assured that solutions for the island’s jetty and erosion problems would be completed next year at the latest.
Inauguration of ATM Services
As part of the visit, President Muizzu formally inaugurated the newly established Bank of Maldives (BML) Automated Teller Machine (ATM) service in Fehendhoo. The island is the 42nd to receive ATM services under a national initiative to expand banking accessibility across the country. The President has pledged to ensure that all inhabited islands are equipped with ATM facilities, with BML working to establish ATMs in 100 islands across Maldives this year.
To mark the occasion, President Muizzu conducted a symbolic withdrawal from the ATM. A commemorative bank card was presented to the Fehendhoo Island Council, received by Council President Abdul Hannan Abbas. The self-service ATM offers 24-hour access for individuals and businesses, enabling cash withdrawals, deposits, bill payments, and fund transfers, as well as credit card and loan servicing.
The joint initiative between the government and BML has already extended ATM services to all inhabited islands in six atolls: Haa Alifu, Shaviyani, Dhaalu, Noonu, Meemu, and Kaafu. With the inclusion of Fehendhoo, the BML network now comprises more than 250 ATMs nationwide. The bank reaffirmed its commitment to delivering convenient banking services in close proximity to communities, in alignment with national development priorities.
Presidential Tour Continues Across Baa Atoll
President Muizzu arrived in Fehendhoo on Tuesday, marking the seventh stop in his tour of Baa Atoll. He was welcomed by senior officials, institutional representatives, and residents of all ages.
The tour, scheduled from 11 to 14 August, includes visits to 13 inhabited islands: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Kendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, Fulhadhoo, Hithaadhoo, Kihaadhoo, Dhonfanu, Dharavandhoo, and Maalhos.
The tour is intended to facilitate direct engagement with citizens, assess local conditions, and consult with island councils on development priorities. These visits aim to ensure that government initiatives remain responsive to community feedback and grounded in the lived realities of the Maldivian people.