'Maldives 2.0' Summit launched to drive digital transformation

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu officially launched the "Maldives 2.0" summit last night, marking the beginning of a major initiative to digitally transform the nation.

The launch ceremony was held at Barcelo Nasandhura, which opened late last month, and attended by key government officials including Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan.

The President's Digital Transformation Council, chaired by President Muizzu and composed of industry experts, will spearhead the implementation of this digital agenda.

Minister Ihusan stated that the policy was developed with support from some of the world’s most digitally advanced nations and professionals in the field.

He said that a two-day summit will now follow, bringing together all government agencies to finalize and agree on a unified roadmap for the country’s digital future.

“The Maldives’ digital transformation agenda will be collectively agreed upon during the summit, and implementation will begin at an accelerated pace,” said Minister Ihusan.

He added that technical staff from the Ministry of Homeland Security, NCIT, and TradeNet will play a key role in executing the policies.

During the launch, Linavik, a member of the Estonian Digital Council and co-founder of the e-Governance Academy, shared insights from Estonia’s own digital transformation journey.

He emphasized the importance of having clear goals, saying that small countries like Estonia and Maldives thrive when they towards achieving their vision.

“Digital transformation cannot be achieved by itself. It requires collaboration, both domestically and with international partners,” Linavik said, noting similarities between Estonia and Maldives, particularly in the geographic spread of populations and the need to deliver accessible services across remote areas.

He said that modernizing outdated bureaucratic systems will require collective commitment, but with a roadmap and joint effort, Maldives can succeed.

“Estonia will always stand with Maldives in offering guidance and support,” he assured.