President: Digitalization is the cornerstone of Maldives’ national vision

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has described digitalization as the cornerstone of Maldives’ national vision, promising to ensure that every Maldivian has access to the digital tools they need to thrive.

He made the remarks during his address on Monday afternoon at the ‘Summit of the Future Side Event: A Vision for an Intelligence-Driven Future for Maldives’.

The event was organized by the Foreign Ministry in collaboration with the United Nations as part of the buildup to the Summit of the Future, which will take place in New York during the High-Level Week of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly from September 22-23.

Addressing the event, President Muizzu highlighted on the transformative power of digitalization.

“Digitalization is the cornerstone of our national vision. In an era where digital tools are at our fingertips, and where physical boundaries no longer limit us, we are committed to ensuring that every Maldivian, regardless of geographic location, has access to the digital tools they need to thrive,” he said.

President Muizzu said that over the past decade, Maldives has made significant strides in building the digital infrastructure necessary to connect its islands.

“Digitalization enables us to bridge gaps in service delivery by offering remote access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and government services. It also helps us diversify our economy, promoting e-commerce, digital payments, and entrepreneurship,” he said.

President Muizzu said that digitalization is not only a tool to enhance economic prospects, but also to elevate the quality of life of Maldivians.

He said that the focus of digitalization is to empower citizens with digital literacy, ensuring that technology was harnessed to bring forth creators and innovators.

“Through initiatives like the Digital Maldives Program, we are equipping our youth with the skills needed to succeed in the digital economy. Equally, we are ensuring that our women, the backbone of our society, have equal access to these opportunities,” he said.

The President also highlighted the vital role digitalization played in tackling the environmental challenges, one of the most pressing issues for the nation.

He indicated that early warning systems and smart technologies were helping to build a more sustainable and resilient future.

“I want to remind us all the story of the Maldives is a story of resilience. We are a small nation, but our ambitions are vast. Digitalization is the tool that will allow us to not only survive, but to prosper and thrive in an ever-changing world,” he said.

President Muizzu said that one of the biggest hurdles facing the Maldives is a lack of capital, and spoke about his administration’s efforts to address the issue, including the establishment of the Maldives Development Bank.

“One of our major hurdles is a lack of capital, which is why I spearheaded the establishment of the Maldives Development Bank. This institution will focus on financing projects that support digital innovation, sustainability, and both economic and social development. We are also developing a National Development Master Plan to create innovation hubs and technology parks across the country,” he said.

He also stressed the need for global cooperation to address the complex challenges posed by the digital age.

“Issues like cybersecurity, data privacy, misinformation, and the digital divide require global cooperation. The Maldives is committed to working with the international community to address these issues, ensuring that the benefits of digitalization are shared equitably,” he said.

Before concluding his address, President Muizzu said that Maldives’ success will be measured not just by the technologies deployed, but by the lives improved.

“Looking ahead, our vision is clear: a Maldives where every citizen, every business, and every institution is digitally empowered. We are building a digital economy that is inclusive, innovative, affordable, and sustainable,” he said.

“Now, it is time to embrace, enhance, and elevate this transformation. Digitalization is not just a tool; it is the key to unlocking a brighter, more sustainable future.”