Niyaz: Digital finance as one of the greatest equalizers in a dispersed nation like Maldives

Digital finance has become one of the most powerful equalizers in geographically dispersed nations such as the Maldives, says Ooredoo Maldives’ Chief Commercial Officer, Hussain Niyaz.

He made this remark during the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) Conference panel “Rethinking Economic Growth Beyond Tourism” held on Sunday at Villa Nautica.

During the event, which brought together policymakers, financial leaders, and industry experts to explore new pathways for diversifying the Maldivian economy, Niyaz emphasized the transformative role of digital finance and fintech innovation in driving national economic growth and inclusion.

He spoke about how digital finance has become one of the most powerful equalizers in geographically dispersed nations such as the Maldives.

“Digital finance is one of the greatest equalizers in a dispersed nation like ours. With m-Faisaa soon integrated with PayPal, we’re enabling freelancers, artisans, and small businesses from every island to access global markets and new income streams. This is how every community becomes part of the digital economy,” he said.

Niyaz noted that while the potential is immense, the Maldives must overcome persistent challenges including high infrastructure costs, digital skill gaps, and fragmented digital systems.

“But to unlock this fully, we must overcome high infrastructure costs, skills gaps, and fragmented digital systems. No single player can do it alone. Strong private-sector partnerships are key to expanding connectivity, digital tools, and financial inclusion. So that innovation and opportunity reach every island in the Maldives,” he said.

Highlighting the human-centered foundation of digital transformation, Niyaz reinforced that the Digital Maldives will be shaped not just by technology, but by people.

“Technology doesn’t build a digital nation, people do. Anyone with the mindset to embrace change has a role in shaping the Digital Maldives,” he said.

Throughout the session, Niyaz reiterated Ooredoo’s continued commitment to delivering cutting-edge digital solutions, expanding nationwide connectivity, and enabling financial inclusion through platforms such as m-Faisaa.

The upcoming PayPal and m-Faisaa integration is expected to unlock global opportunities for Maldivians by simplifying access to international payments. This would be especially beneficial for freelancers, guesthouses, small merchants, and creative entrepreneurs across the islands.

Ooredoo Maldives has said it remains dedicated to working in partnership with government bodies, regulators, and the private sector to build a resilient, diversified, and digitally empowered economy.