President Muizzu Calls for Greater Integrity and Transparency to Build Resilient Nations

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called for sustained investment in integrity, accountability, transparency, innovation and genuine partnerships, stating that these principles are essential to ensuring future generations inherit more resilient states, stronger democracies, healthier economies and more hopeful societies.

The President made the remarks while addressing the closing session of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) Symposium and the opening of the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) Global Summit, held in Ukulhas, North Ari Atoll.

In his address, President Muizzu said true national resilience is built on strong institutions, supported by responsible fiscal management, strengthened through transparency and sustained by public trust in government. He stressed that the role of Supreme Audit Institutions has become increasingly important in safeguarding public resources and ensuring effective governance.

The President emphasised that every dollar entrusted by citizens and every contribution from development partners must be used for its intended purpose. He described accountability as more than an administrative responsibility, calling it a strategic national asset that drives development and public confidence.

Highlighting the unique realities faced by Small Island Developing States, President Muizzu noted that many countries must balance investments in long-term development while managing debt, respond to emergencies without compromising future stability, and protect vulnerable communities while sustaining economic growth.

Despite ongoing global economic uncertainty and external pressures, he said the Maldives has remained committed to meeting its financial obligations while continuing to invest in national development.

Speaking on the future of governance, President Muizzu said digital transformation presents an unprecedented opportunity for SIDS to overcome challenges posed by geography, distance and limited institutional capacity. He pointed to the Government’s Maldives 2.0 vision as a commitment to building a modern, citizen-centred digital state, adding that technology is not only an innovation agenda but also a governance, development and resilience agenda.

During the ceremony, the President also launched the Auditor General’s Office Strategic Plan 2026 to 2029, outlining the institution’s priorities for the coming four years.

The symposium, hosted in Ukulhas, an island recognised for its environmental sustainability, brought together Supreme Audit Institutions from Small Island Developing States to exchange knowledge, strengthen institutional capacity and enhance support for the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.