The Government has decided to relocate the proposed juvenile rehabilitation center, ‘Hope Island’, to Giraavaru Uthuru Falhu, shifting away from its initially planned location in Vaani, Dhaalu Atoll.
State Minister for Homeland Security and Technology, Ahmed Siddeeq, confirmed the decision during an appearance on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme. He explained that while concept drawings and plans had already been completed for the Vaani site, concerns over high operational costs led to a reassessment.
“If it’s developed in Vaani, we would need to travel by air to Kudahuvadhoo or endure long sea journeys, significantly increasing costs,” Siddeeq said, adding that relocating the center closer to Malé makes it more sustainable.
The 15-hectare facility will be developed to accommodate around 700 minors and will offer education, religious guidance, and rehabilitation programs for at-risk children. It will be equipped with classrooms, trained teachers, police officers, instructors, sports, and healthcare facilities.
Siddeeq emphasized that the center is designed to provide psychosocial intervention and structured rehabilitation to prevent minors from reoffending. Those held at the facility will remain there until they turn 18, after which they will either serve a designated term in the Maldives Police Service (MPS) or the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) as part of their reintegration process.
The project is set to begin once the land reclamation of Giraavaru Uthuru Falhu is completed, marking a significant step toward establishing a structured juvenile rehabilitation system in the Maldives.
