The Bank of Maldives (BML) has inaugurated a new ATM service in Laamu Hithadhoo, marking the beginning of a major milestone to provide ATM facilities on every inhabited island of Laamu Atoll within this week. The initiative is part of the bank’s nationwide “Mulhi Raajje ah BML ATM” program, aimed at expanding financial accessibility and inclusion across the Maldives.
The inauguration ceremony held in Laamu Hithadhoo was attended by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Cabinet Ministers, BML Chairperson Ahmed Ali Habeeb, CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef, and other senior bank officials. During the event, a groundbreaking ceremony was also held to commence the construction of a new BML branch on the island.
Following the Hithadhoo launch, BML will roll out ATM services in the remaining inhabited islands of Laamu Atoll — Kunahandhoo, Dhanbidhoo, Maabaidhoo, Mundoo, Isdhoo, and Kalaidhoo — completing full ATM coverage across the atoll. This expansion underscores the bank’s strategic commitment to bringing modern financial services closer to communities in every corner of the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, BML CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef highlighted the significance of this expansion. “The launch of ATM services in these seven islands in Laamu Atoll will bring the total number of islands with new ATMs introduced under the ‘Mulhi Raajje ah BML ATM’ program this year to 103. This is undoubtedly one of the biggest projects we have undertaken and reflects our commitment to financial inclusion and supporting local growth,” he said.
As the Maldives’ leading financial institution, BML continues to strengthen its network — currently comprising 42 branches across all 20 atolls, 194 Self-Service Banking Centres, 252 ATMs, and a wide range of digital and agent banking services. Through sustained investment in digital infrastructure and nationwide accessibility, the bank remains a cornerstone of the country’s financial development.
