President Muizzu Calls for Stronger Police Service to Secure National Reputation

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has urged the Maldives Police Service (MPS) to enhance its capabilities and professionalism to safeguard the nation's trust and reputation both locally and on the international stage. In a formal message marking Police Service Day, the President extended his greetings to the officers and personnel of the institution, both past and present. He emphasized that a strong, capable police force is essential for maintaining the confidence of Maldivian citizens and foreign nationals, ensuring the Maldives remains viewed as a secure and law-abiding society by the global community. President Muizzu called upon all officers to continue their duties with courage and sincerity, stressing that these values are critical to achieving the service's long-term objectives of public safety and institutional integrity. The Maldives Police Service has undergone significant evolution since its inception in 1933. Originally operating as a joint military and police force, it was established as a separate civilian institution on September 1, 2004, under the purview of the Ministry of Home Affairs. This transition shifted the focus toward civilian law enforcement and public service. Legislative frameworks have further modernized the force, with the first police-specific law enacted in 2008. A subsequent law passed in 2020 transitioned the MPS toward a philosophy of modern community policing, prioritizing collaboration between officers and the neighborhoods they serve. To further decentralize security and increase accessibility, the government has announced plans to establish police presence on every inhabited island in the Maldives. Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan previously confirmed that work is underway to finalize these projects by the end of June next year, marking a significant expansion in the state's ability to maintain law and order across the archipelago.