The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) has launched two major military-focused initiatives in the Maldives “Competence” and “Cyber” as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen member states’ defence capabilities.

The initiatives were inaugurated in Malé on Monday, in the presence of Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihsaan and IMCTC Secretary General Maj. Gen. Mohammad bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, along with senior government, military, and diplomatic officials.

The “Competence” initiative is designed to enhance the operational readiness of Maldivian naval forces, particularly in responding to naval mine threats.

Training under this programme will combine classroom-based instruction with hands-on exercises, covering types of naval mines, demining mechanisms, and safe clearance procedures.

It also includes extensive field operations involving detection, underwater tasks, and the use of modern equipment and technologies.

Meanwhile, the “Cyber” initiative aims to strengthen the country’s digital security infrastructure.

The programme focuses on cyber-threat identification, protection systems, incident response management, and broader national cybersecurity capacity-building.

As part of the launch event, IMCTC and the Maldivian Ministry of Defence signed a Joint Training Document, establishing a structured framework for military and technical training, exchange of expertise, and capacity development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Maj. Gen. Al-Moghedi highlighted the strong support extended to IMCTC by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Defense, HRH Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, whose strategic vision he said plays a central role in shaping IMCTC’s work in counterterrorism and capability development.

He noted that the Maldives remains an important partner in the coalition's efforts, adding that the new initiatives reinforce IMCTC’s broader mission across its four counterterrorism pillars: Ideology, Communications, Counter-Terrorism Financing, and Military.

He stressed that modern security challenges require increased operational readiness and robust cyber resilience to safeguard national interests.

Minister Ali Ihsaan expressed gratitude for IMCTC’s continued support, stating that both initiatives address critical national needs in strengthening defence preparedness and digital protection.

He added that the partnership will significantly assist the Maldives in enhancing its security posture and ensuring long-term stability.

The event concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation in training, development, and capacity-building.

Officials noted that the launch of “Competence” and “Cyber” marks a significant milestone in Maldives–IMCTC collaboration, contributing to regional security and the collective fight against terrorism and extremism.

IMCTC emphasized that these initiatives are part of a broader effort to support member nations with advanced training programmes aimed at bolstering military readiness and cybersecurity, reinforcing the coalition’s long-standing commitment to regional stability and coordinated counterterrorism efforts.