Tuesday 24 Mar 2026
Sinamale' flats. (Photo/CNM)
The Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure has formally invited locally registered organizations and consultants to submit proposals for a technical assessment of the Sinamale’ and Male’ Hiyaa flats. This initiative represents a critical, long-awaited step toward resolving chronic maintenance and structural issues that have plagued these 1990s-era buildings for decades. Proposals must include the preparation of tender documentation for necessary repairs. This action aligns with broader government commitments, including relief measures such as fine waivers and financial allowances, to support residents facing prolonged uncertainty regarding their living conditions.
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.
— Ministry of Construction, Housing & Infrastructure (@MoCImv) March 23, 2026
Link: https://t.co/EQcGm7nVuf pic.twitter.com/9Ci0q9wNCg
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.
