Government invites proposals to assess Sinamale’ and Male' Hiyaa flats ahead of major repairs

The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure has opened proposals for a detailed assessment of the Sinamale’ and Male' Hiyaa flats, marking the first formal step toward long‑awaited repair and renovation works on the ageing housing blocks.

According to the ministry’s announcement, locally registered organisations, firms and consultants are invited to submit proposals to carry out a full technical assessment and prepare tender documentation for the repair and maintenance of the buildings. Clarification requests may be submitted until 26 March at 13:00, and the submission deadline is 31 March at 13:00.

Invitation for Proposal : Consultancy Services for Detailed Assessment Preparation of Tender Documentation for Repair and Maintenance of Sinamale’ and Male’ Hiyaa Buildings.

Link: https://t.co/EQcGm7nVuf pic.twitter.com/9Ci0q9wNCg

— Ministry of Construction, Housing & Infrastructure (@MoCImv) March 23, 2026

The move follows last week’s notice by the Male' City Council seeking contractors to undertake physical repair works on the flats.

Built in the 1990s, the Sinamale’ and Male' Hiyaa buildings were once considered high‑quality housing. More than 35 years later, residents face persistent issues including malfunctioning elevators, water leaks during rain, and significant structural deterioration.

Successive councils, including those led by the MDP and by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during his tenure as Male' Mayor, have pledged to resolve the long‑standing concerns of residents. Both sides have previously said earlier administrations created obstacles that prevented flat owners from securing favourable solutions.

President Muizzu, who served as housing minister for seven years, met residents of Galolhu last December and reiterated his commitment to addressing the condition of the flats. On 16 February, he met with flat owners again and announced several relief measures.

These include waiving accumulated fines for non‑payment and providing a MVR 100,000 allowance to residents, citing the prolonged delay in resolving ownership and division issues.

The ministry said the newly announced assessment is a key step toward implementing a long‑term solution for the buildings.