The three-day event, organized by the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators Council (SATRC) under the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT), is taking place from 12 to 14 August. This marks the third time the Maldives has hosted the initiative, with thirty delegates from eight South Asian nations in attendance, including representatives from major Maldivian telecommunications firms.
During the opening session, Dr Mohamed Kinaanath, State Minister at the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology, provided a comprehensive overview of the Maldives’ telecommunications landscape. He traced the sector’s remarkable evolution, highlighting the progression from 3G mobile services to the expansion of 4G between 2010 and 2020, and the subsequent establishment of 5G infrastructure in 2019.
Digital Transformation at the Forefront
A key focal point of the forum was the recent nationwide rollout of the Fibre to the Home (FTTH) network, which Dr Kinaanath described as a critical step towards ensuring equitable digital access. This initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s broader ‘Maldives 2.0′ digital transformation policy, designed to democratize technological benefits across the nation.
The forum’s agenda is strategically focused on addressing the operational and regulatory challenges associated with deploying cutting-edge technologies. Dr Kinaanath expressed optimism that the collaborative discussions would ultimately strengthen the quality, resilience, and accessibility of telecommunication services throughout the region.
Ilyas Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Communications Authority of Maldives, elaborated on the forum’s objectives in a statement to state media. He emphasized that participants would critically assess the implications of emerging technologies and share best practices for their effective implementation. “This platform is crucial for regional collaboration,” Ahmed noted, “allowing member states to exchange innovative strategies for advancing communications technology.”
The gathering represents a significant opportunity for South Asian nations to align their technological approaches, share insights, and develop coordinated strategies for digital infrastructure development. By bringing together regulators and industry experts, the forum aims to create a collaborative framework that can accelerate technological innovation and connectivity across the region.
As telecommunications continue to play an increasingly critical role in economic and social development, such forums become essential in bridging technological gaps and fostering regional cooperation. The Maldives’ commitment to hosting this important event underscores its emerging role as a key player in South Asian digital transformation.
