A remarkable gathering of economic experts, policymakers, researchers, and youth participants set an inspiring tone as the MMA Research Conference 2025 opened at Villa Nautica – Paradise Island on 16 November. With more than 240 attendees, over twice the number recorded last year this year’s conference reflects a rapidly growing enthusiasm for high-quality economic research and evidence-driven policy development. The strong turnout underscores how the Maldives is increasingly becoming a regional hub for dialogue on economic resilience, sustainable growth, and financial innovation.
Spanning two days from 16 to 17 November, the event brings together more than 40 paper presenters, including over 20 international researchers from universities, think tanks, and financial institutions across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. Their participation highlights the expanding global interest in the Maldives’ policy challenges, ranging from climate adaptation to financial sector modernisation. This year also witnessed a surge in research engagement, with the MMA receiving 39 proposals for Research Funds and 20 submissions for the next edition of the MMA Magazine a clear indication of the deepening research culture across key policy domains.
A defining moment of the opening ceremony was the introduction of two major publications designed to nurture economic scholarship. Education Minister Dr. Ismail Shafeeu launched The Island Economist, a new economic and financial magazine that aims to make research insights accessible to a broader audience, while strengthening informed public discussions on national development. Complementing this initiative, The Maldives Journal of Economics and Finance was formally launched by Dr. Aishath Muneeza, Professor and Associate Dean at INCEIF University, Malaysia. The academic journal will serve as a platform for peer-reviewed research, supporting both local and international scholars in developing high-quality economic studies.
Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, the event also recognized outstanding youth innovation. Awards and cash prizes were presented to the finalists of the Tamweel Fintech Festival 2025 competitions. These competitions showcased forward-thinking solutions developed by young innovators exploring new technologies, financial inclusion tools, and emerging digital trends shaping the future of the financial sector.
This year’s conference follows the successful Tamweel FinLit Fest, a pre-conference initiative that attracted 140 participants, the majority of them students from local schools. Through interactive sessions, the programme focused on building financial literacy and nurturing interest in economic thinking among younger generations, further reinforcing MMA’s commitment to nationwide financial education.
The 2025 conference is structured around two broad themes that capture the nation’s key priorities.
The first theme, “Reshaping Policy for a Resilient Maldives: Innovation, Stability, and Inclusive Growth,” examines how the country can strengthen its economic foundations in the face of climate challenges, fluctuating global markets, and rapid technological shifts. Speakers emphasised that long-term resilience depends on innovative policymaking, investment in human capital, and economic strategies that support both stability and inclusivity.
The second theme, “Harnessing the Potential of Islamic Finance to Address Economic Challenges and Social Inequality,” brings attention to the transformative role Islamic Social Finance can play in building equitable growth. Discussions throughout the conference will explore how tools such as zakat, waqf, and qard al-hasan can be effectively mobilised to support low-income communities, reduce structural disparities, and create sustainable social development pathways.
Later today, two major panel discussions will take centre stage, offering diverse perspectives from both local and international experts.
The first session, “Charting New Frontiers: Rethinking Economic Growth Beyond Tourism,” will explore practical strategies to diversify the Maldivian economy while maintaining its competitive edge as one of the world’s most celebrated travel destinations.
The second panel, “Beyond Banking: Islamic Social Finance as a Tool for Social Transformation,” will highlight how innovative financial frameworks rooted in Islamic principles can strengthen social welfare systems and contribute to long-term economic balance.
Supported by a strong network of universities, development organisations, and industry partners, the MMA Research Conference 2025 continues to stand as a leading annual platform for research collaboration and forward-looking policymaking. With record participation, a growing research pipeline, and enhanced academic engagement, the conference reaffirms the Maldives’ dedication to shaping a resilient and inclusive economic future one grounded in knowledge, innovation, and global cooperation.
This year’s event not only elevates the Maldives’ presence in the international economic research community but also enhances the country’s overall appeal for visitors seeking a destination that values education, innovation, and sustainable development.
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