President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to resolving operational challenges faced by online businesses while strengthening accessibility across public services and infrastructure, following concerns raised by citizens during the latest session of the public consultation initiative, “Rayyithunge Adu” (Voice of the People).
During the session, participants highlighted difficulties faced by Maldivian entrepreneurs who depend on international e-commerce platforms to source products for their businesses. Particular concerns were raised regarding challenges associated with importing commercial stock purchased through Temu, a platform increasingly used by local online retailers and small businesses.
President Muizzu acknowledged the importance of online commerce to the growing number of Maldivian entrepreneurs and said the Government is continuously working to identify practical solutions and streamline processes related to commercial imports. Addressing such challenges is expected to support small and emerging businesses, improve access to international supply channels and provide a more efficient operating environment for entrepreneurs participating in the country’s expanding digital economy.
Accessibility was also a key focus of the discussion, with citizens highlighting areas where public infrastructure and services could be further improved for persons with disabilities. A participant proposed standardising features within mosques to enable worshippers, including visually impaired individuals, to independently identify the Qiblah direction.
Concerns were also raised regarding accessibility on the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) bus network. The participant proposed introducing automated audio announcements to inform passengers of approaching bus stops, providing greater independence and convenience for visually impaired commuters using public transport.
The accessible infrastructure developed along Boduthakurufaanu Magu was highlighted positively during the session, with a request for similar design principles to be incorporated into future road development and redevelopment projects across the Maldives. Such an approach would contribute towards making public spaces safer, more inclusive and easier to navigate for people of different abilities.
President Muizzu assured participants that the Administration would coordinate with the relevant ministries and state agencies to address the identified transport, infrastructure and accessibility concerns. The commitments reflect the Government’s broader focus on responsive public administration, supporting entrepreneurship and ensuring that national development increasingly accommodates the needs of all sections of society.
Through the “Rayyithunge Adu” initiative, the Government continues to provide citizens with a direct platform to raise concerns and proposals with the Administration, allowing public feedback to contribute towards improvements in government policies, services and infrastructure across the country.
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