President Muizzu Urges Youth to Drive Digital Economy Growth

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised the critical role of young Maldivians in achieving the government's ambitious target of raising the digital economy's contribution to 15 per cent of national GDP by 2030.

The President made these remarks during the "Youth Coffee with President" session, which marked the conclusion of the two-day National Youth Conference organised by the Presidential Youth Advisory Board in partnership with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts.

Highlighting economic diversification as a cornerstone of national progress and youth opportunity, President Muizzu noted that the administration is bolstering traditional sectors like tourism, fisheries, and construction while rapidly expanding the digital economy to create new avenues for young people. He expressed strong confidence in the innovation and potential of Maldivian youth.

Describing "Maldives 2.0" as the nation's most transformative development initiative over the next three years, the President said the programme will revolutionise public services and everyday life. He called on young people to actively participate in its rollout.

Legislation to underpin Maldives 2.0 will be tabled in Parliament during the upcoming session, establishing a robust legal framework. The initiative includes consolidating data across government agencies to create a national data exchange network, thereby enhancing service efficiency.

President Muizzu also announced that national identity cards will retain their physical form while becoming fully digital by the end of 2027, enabling citizens to access all public services online. He stressed the lasting governance advantages of comprehensive digitalisation and urged youth to assist in onboarding citizens to the new platform.

Throughout the interactive session, the President attentively addressed concerns raised by young participants, outlined planned responses, and reaffirmed the administration's dedication to youth empowerment, sustainable development, and environmental protection.