Maldives, Aug 9 (newsin.asia) – Maldives President Abdulla Yameen, on Tuesday, was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Asia Human Resources Development (HRD) Awards 2017 held in Malaysia, his office said in a statement.
The Award was conferred on the President in recognition of his outstanding contributions towards nation-building and people development, and for the strength and support extended to professionals in the HRD field.
The Ambassador of the Maldives to Malaysia, Mohamed Fahmy Hassan accepted the Award on behalf of the Maldives President.
In an acceptance message delivered in absentia at the ceremony, the Maldives President emphasised acceptance of the Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of the people of the Maldives, noting that the Award is an acknowledgement of collective success.
Speaking about the development plan of the Maldives, the President highlighted on transforming the economy by transcending challenges and tapping into areas where the Maldives has comparative advantages. He outlined the vision for a more prosperous and harmonious Maldives with greater international leverage, where its people are independent, empowered and self-sufficient.
The President noted that at nearly USD 8000, the GDP per capita of the Maldives is the highest in the South Asia region, concluding that this is a significant increase from under USD 200, 50 years ago.
Yameen further highlighted on mega development projects underway in the Maldives, including the modernisation and expansion of Velana International Airport.
He noted that the project involves a new runway, more parking bays and a brand new terminal building. He remarked that these improved facilities will collectively make the airport one of the best in the region, and will cater to no less than 7.5 million passengers.
The President also noted that the development of the airport is essential toward the realisation of another objective of the government – opening of 50 new resort hotels. He stated that these projects will quadruple tourists in the coming few years.
