Salaf Society submits eight demands to Maldives government on foreign projects

Salaf Society has submitted a formal request to the Maldivian government outlining eight key points it says must be ensured in the implementation of foreign projects, including the Rasmalé development project. The request, issued today, follows the society’s announcement on September 28 last year that it was conducting research into the Rasmalé project amid growing public concerns. The society said its submission was based on meetings with relevant government institutions and other information gathered, noting that the project involves leasing 500 hectares of land in Rasmalé to UAE-based Eagle Hills for 99 years on a real estate development basis while maintaining Maldivian state ownership. The eight points highlighted by Salaf Society are: protecting Islamic identity and national sovereignty; defending state policy and strategic independence; studying changes and security risks to the population structure; aiming for economic development that yields the highest benefit to Maldivians; implementing transparent and clear policies; balancing an open economy with national foundations; establishing a permanent monitoring system; and assessing social impacts. In its request, Salaf Society urged that investments in the Maldives protect the country's Islamic character and national sovereignty, and that citizens of Israel, which it described as established under Zionist occupation on stolen Palestinian sacred lands, be denied opportunities through such projects. It also called for transparent disclosure of agreements, monitoring to ensure full compliance with Islamic and social guidelines alongside citizen consultation, and for agreements and legal frameworks to prioritise safeguarding national interests. The society stressed that the state must retain full authority and control over the country's land, natural resources, security framework, regional borders, ports, and all military and strategic assets. It also requested assurances that no privileges or rights would arise that could hinder the state from fulfilling its fiduciary and legal responsibilities due to long-term agreements. Additionally, Salaf Society said mechanisms must be clearly defined in agreements to allow the state to reclaim any area, right, or privilege used to compromise the Islamic personality of Maldivian society, national sovereignty, independence, or national interests, without compensation. It further requested that any compensation required from the state be predetermined, clarified, and fair and sustainable for state finances. According to Salaf Society, the true vision of the Rasmalé project will only become certain once the project agreement is drafted and relevant legislation exists.