North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) of the minority opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has submitted a proposal to the Parliament to increase the mandatory child support payment, currently set at MVR 2,000.

In a letter addressed to Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Mohamed highlighted that MVR 2,000 is insufficient to raise a child given the rising cost of living. “MVR 2,000 is not enough even to cover school fees or tuition fees, let alone food and diaper expenses,” he stated. He further noted that after lengthy court processes, this amount is often the only relief granted, causing significant distress to single mothers and broken families.

The current regulations, implemented under section 72 of the Family Act, mandate MVR 2,000 in monthly child support for one child until they turn 18. For additional children, the required increment is a minimum of MVR 1,000. Beyond financial support, fathers are obligated to provide three sets of clothing annually, two school uniforms, one pair of shoes, school supplies, and medical expenses based on local healthcare rates. Additional expenses may be granted depending on the child’s needs and the father’s financial status.

To address these concerns, Mohamed requested that the Parliamentary Regulation Review Committee arrange a meeting with officials from the Social and Family Development Ministry. He emphasized the urgency of revising the regulations to better support children and families facing financial challenges.