Maldives Digital Partnership Program launched

The Maldives today launched the Maldives Digital Partnership Program, a five-year initiative aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation.

The program is a joint effort by the Bank of Maldives (BML), the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, the National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT), and Mastercard.

“This strategic program supports the Maldivian government's vision of a digitally service-friendly nation by developing modern infrastructure and improving secure digital service delivery,” BML said in a statement.

Key activities under the agreement include:

1. Enhancing security through advanced services and a modernized digital identity and payment system

2. Strengthening cybersecurity with the use of artificial intelligence

3. Expanding the digital payment system and digitizing government services and key economic sectors

4. Modernizing and simplifying the payment system used in the transportation sector

5. Leveraging data analytics to generate actionable insights for the tourism industry and other economic growth-driving sectors

Bank of Maldives (BML) CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef said the bank is proud to collaborate with Mastercard and the National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) to drive transformative change in the Maldives. He emphasized that the program will contribute to building a safer and more digitally advanced society for all.

“This agreement will lay a strong foundation for Maldives' future by combining local expertise with Mastercard’s global technology capabilities, we’re confident in our ability to build a strong digital foundation for the nation’s future,” Shareef said.

Minister of State for Homeland Security and Technology and the Head of National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT) Dr Mohamed Kinaanath stated that, “We are happy to partner with Mastercard and BML on the Maldives Digital Partnership Program. The Maldives is currently undergoing a momentous digital transformation journey through Maldives 2.0, spearheaded by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision to leverage technology for economic growth, transparency, better governance and enhanced citizen services."

Mastercard Country Manager for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Sandun Hapugoda, noted that Mastercard recognizes the economic opportunities and sustainable changes enabled by digital innovation.

"We are proud to support the nation’s journey towards a digitally empowered future—leveraging data and technology to deliver meaningful outcomes for the people and accelerate the growth of the digital economy.” Hapugoda said.