Government compiling register of poorest families to prioritize social housing

Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib said on Monday evening that the government is compiling a special register to ensure the poorest and most vulnerable families are given priority in the allocation of social housing.

Speaking at the ceremony to inaugurate the construction of 1,190 housing units under the BML Affordable Housing Project in Hulhumale' Phase II, Muthalib said the initiative is part of the government’s Housing for All policy, under which BML is developing 3,260 housing units.

Muthalib said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has personally visited many homes since his time as Housing Minister in 2012, and has repeatedly witnessed the difficult living conditions faced by families in need.

“When you visit such houses and see the condition of the families, you understand how sensitive housing is. For this government, housing is a matter of humanity, not politics. Protecting the rights of vulnerable people is a personal responsibility for us,” he said.

He noted that the government’s housing policy is not based on a single programme or principle, but on the understanding that different groups require different solutions. This includes bank‑financed options for first‑time buyers and rent‑to‑own flats for low‑income families through BML’s ongoing projects.

According to Muthalib, the most important and meaningful part of the housing policy is ensuring that the poorest families, who often fail to secure flats under public housing schemes, are not left behind.

“Based on past experience, the families most in need of housing are the ones who do not get flats. Sometimes they don’t know the rules, don’t receive proper information, don’t get the help they need, or lack the required documents,” he said, adding that such families often become invisible within the system.

He said the government’s responsibility is to identify these households, assess their living conditions, and provide the support they need.

“Recognising the importance of creating a priority social housing register, the administrative work has already begun. A compassionate government will work tirelessly to ensure the poor do not have to beg for help,” he said.

Muthalib has previously stated that the government’s priority is families without any housing. He also reiterated that all ongoing housing projects will be completed within the current five‑year term.

President Muizzu has pledged to ensure housing for every Maldivian above the age of 18 during this term.