The government will consider installing modern emergency notification systems in existing and new flats to help people with hearing impairments respond to emergencies, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said today.

President Muizzu made the remarks while meeting a hearing-impaired couple as part of the “Rayyithunge Adu” programme, which allows people to raise concerns and complaints directly with the president.

The couple told the president that they were concerned about the lack of an adequate system to immediately alert them to emergencies such as fires in their building.

With the assistance of a sign-language interpreter, the couple also spoke about the difficulties they face in seeking help while caring for an ailing father.

They also raised challenges faced by their three children at school, including difficulties communicating with teachers about their children’s education despite the children not having hearing impairments.

After hearing their concerns, President Muizzu said the government would work to ensure newly developed flats are equipped with modern systems that can alert people with disabilities to emergency situations.

He said the government already considers allocating lower-floor flats to families with persons with disabilities in housing projects. However, he said additional priority would be given to ensuring safe and comfortable living arrangements for people with disabilities in buildings where they reside.