Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, has revealed plans to inaugurate a children's rehabilitation centre in Hoarafushi in the coming week.

Speaking at a press conference held last night, Minister Ihusaan outlined the facility's initial focus as a Juvenile Residential Treatment Centre, prioritizing the treatment of at-risk high-priority children.

He emphasized the decision to repurpose the Hoarafushi centre for this purpose, highlighting its readiness for operation.

Furthermore, Minister Ihusaan outlined the post-treatment process, noting that children would be transferred to a halfway house following their residential treatment.

He clarified that the Hoarafushi rehabilitation centre was designed to function as a halfway centre but had yet to be officially opened.

A halfway house serves as an interim residence for children before their release into the public.

Regarding the previously planned residential treatment centre in Dh. Kudahuvadhoo, Minister Ihusaan explained that it was not opened due to challenges in transitioning children to a halfway house in Hoarafushi. Consequently, the halfway house in Hoarafushi will now be repurposed as a rehabilitation treatment centre.

The imminent opening of the children's rehabilitation centre in Hoarafushi marks a significant step in providing essential care and support for vulnerable youth in the Maldives.