Maldives has officially launched its ID card and passport issuance services in Malaysia, marking the first time these services are being offered outside the country.

The service was inaugurated today in Kuala Lumpur by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who is currently on an official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

During the ceremony, the first passports and ID cards were handed over to two Maldivian citizens by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan.

Malaysia, home to a significant Maldivian community residing there for education, work, and other purposes, is the first country where Maldivians can now obtain their national ID cards and passports abroad.

According to the government, the service will be available to the public starting tomorrow.

The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology had previously announced plans to expand ID card and passport services to countries with large Maldivian populations.

In addition to Malaysia, the services are expected to be introduced soon in Sri Lanka, India, and the United Kingdom.