Maldives Must Strive to Become World’s Safest Destination, Says Homeland Security Minister
- Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusaan urged safety professionals to unite in making the Maldives the world's safest destination.
- He called for state and private collaboration to address risks including fires, natural disasters, cyberattacks, drug trafficking, and public health.
- The two-day Safety & Security Conference Maldives 2026, organized by MAFSSI, gathers local and international experts at Barceló Nasandhura.
The Minister of Homeland Security and Techology Ali Ihusaan has declared that professionals across the safety sector must unite to transform the Maldives into the safest nation in the world.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of a two-day Safety and Security Conference today, Minister Ihusaan emphasized that safeguarding visiting tourists remains paramount to sustaining the country’s status as a global holiday destination. The Maldives Association of Fire, Safety and Security Industry (MAFSSI) organized the event, which marks the first summit of its kind tailored specifically for the nation’s tourism sector.
Minister Ihusaan asserted that state bodies and private organizations in the tourism and security industries must collaborate to guarantee comprehensive safety across the archipelago. Beyond tackling routine tourism-related crime, he instructed industry stakeholders to prioritize a broad spectrum of critical risks:
- Fire and maritime incidents
- Natural disasters and environmental challenges
- Cyberattacks and online fraud schemes
- Illicit drug trafficking
- Public health concerns
Highlighting the vulnerabilities of a small island state, the Minister warned that international threats can rapidly spread across the country. Consequently, he urged agencies to implement proactive measures to stop incidents before they occur.
To build long-term resilience, Minister Ihusaan drew a distinction between simply addressing immediate problems and actively planning for future challenges. He stressed the importance of maintaining robust safety and security policies, pledging full government backing for the tourism sector. Furthermore, he called on the government and industry partners to work together to mitigate risks, prepare well in advance, safeguard lives, and ensure visitors feel completely secure during their stay.
Achieving this secure environment requires robust policy-making, dedicated training, continuous investment, modern technology, and seamless inter-institutional cooperation.
The Safety & Security Conference Maldives 2026, taking place from 29 to 30 September at Barceló Nasandhura in Malé, brings together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and local and international experts. The summit serves as a collaborative platform for state institutions, resort operators, and security firms to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange strategic ideas, and foster shared learning toward a safer and more resilient nation.
