At the inauguration of a Maldives Islamic Bank ATM in Thulhaadhoo, Finance and Public Enterprises Minister Hassan Zareer highlighted that the facility will give residents access to essential banking services without traveling to another island. The ATM is expected to benefit the island’s artisans, fishermen and local businesses. Zareer linked wider banking access to the local economy, noting Thulhaadhoo’s reliance on traditional lacquer craftsmanship and fisheries. He described the preservation of traditional crafts as an economic policy priority because their survival depends on providing families with a sustainable source of income.