Smart Maldives: successful journey towards digital transformation

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu highlighting the Maldives' journey towards digital transformation, has said that technology plays a crucial role in the development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

President Muizzu made the remark during his address a the sideline event "Smart Maldives: Journey towards a digitally inclusive community" at the fourth international conference on SIDS held in Antigua and Barbuda.

During his speech, President Muizzu highlighted the Maldives' resilience in the face of limited resources, economic constraints, and the imminent challenges faced by climate change faced by other SIDS. He added that the Maldives government placed special priority on strengthening and expanding the country's digital economy.

In this digital era, having the means to bridge this gap through technology is indeed a positive news for SIDS, President Muizzu added.

"I am happy to say that the Maldives represents a success story in digital transformation," he said.

President Muizzu said that embracing innovation and technology has been pivotal in the Maldives' journey towards progress. The nation's success story in digital transformation has paved the way for adaptive solutions in healthcare, education, public services, and economic diversification.

"We achieved universal telephone coverage to all islands while we were still a Least Developed Country."

Universal telephone coverage and a variety of web applications and portals have brought critical services to the fingertips of all Maldivians, enhancing governance and citizen participation, said President Muizzu.

He added that the Maldives is also exploring innovative uses for 5G such as a system to deliver medical supplies via a drone network, smart road systems, AI integrated Geographic Information System (GIS) for erosion detection and environmental monitoring.

Challenges in cybersecurity

However, the digital revolution has also brought about new challenges, particularly in cybersecurity.

President Muizzu said that the recent report by the UNDP on Small Island Digital States highlighted the urgent need for robust cybersecurity infrastructure.

In response, the Maldives has expanded the role of its National Centre for Information Technology and established a National Cybersecurity Agency, demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding digital frontiers.

Need for international cooperation

Acknowledging that the journey towards a digital economy cannot be undertaken alone, President Muizzu emphasized the importance of international cooperation and investment.

The President highlighted three critical areas where assistance is required;

- Targeted investments to promote innovation and technology, drive economic diversification, enhance public services and empower the workforce.

- Technical expertise to develop consumer protection laws and regulations.

- Inclusive participation in regional and international standard-setting negotiations, security fair representation in shaping the digital economy.

"Let us join hands and embrace the limitless opportunities ahead as we navigate towards a future where SIDS flourish in the digital age," President Muizzu said.