Housing Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib has said the government’s housing policy is driven by humanitarian need rather than political considerations.
Speaking at the foundation stone laying ceremony for 1,190 flats to be developed in Hulhumale; by Bank of Maldives, the minister highlighted the living conditions of a family in Maafannu North as an example of the challenges many face.
He said the home, visited earlier this month by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu consisted of a small kitchen and bunk beds used for sleeping, adding that such conditions were unacceptable in a country with a per capita GDP exceeding USD 17,000.
“Housing is not only a right for affluent families. The government is working to ensure security for every Maldivian household.Minister Muththalib
He said many families continue to live in overcrowded conditions, often sharing a single room with children and dealing with issues such as water leaks, frequently without complaint or much hope.
“But they will not be marginalized under this government,” he said
“Housing is for humanity, it is not a political matter.”
Minister Muththalib said the government’s approach is not based on a single model, but on tailored solutions for different groups. These include access to first-home ownership through bank financing, as well as lease-to-own flats under social housing schemes for low-income earners.
He added that the most vulnerable families, particularly those who have not benefited from previous housing schemes, often lack awareness of the application process or the documentation required.
“For a long time, they have been left out and pushed to the margins. With the hardships of daily life, applying for such programmes becomes difficult,” he said.
“The poorest are the most invisible. This government does not accept that. We do not want the poorest to be outcasts.”
He said the government would not allow individuals to be excluded from housing due to an inability to complete paperwork, adding that it is the state’s responsibility to assist them.
Administrative work has begun to introduce a priority registration system to identify such households, he said.
Minister Muththalib described the government’s “Housing for All” policy as a compassionate approach aimed at expanding access to housing in line with people’s means.
