Minister of National Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Mohamed Aslam has stated the government does not wish to relocate residents to different islands.
Responding to questions at the Parliament, Minister Aslam said the government will not relocate residents no matter how small the population of an island. The minister said the government is focused on providing basic services and resources and providing financial opportunities to residents of all inhabited islands.
He highlighted that the government is committed to fulfilling its pledge of establishing water supply and sewerage systems in all the islands. He said currently there are only a few water and sewerage projects that have yet to begin.
Furthermore, Minister Aslam noted that residents of small islands have opportunities to create income using the natural beauty of their islands. He said residents of islands such as Ukulhas, Alifu Alifu Atoll, and Maafushi, Kaafu Atoll, have made use of these opportunities and have become prosperous communities as a result.
The planning minister also assured the government will continue to expand basic services and provide financial opportunities to more islands.