President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has directed his ministerial Cabinet to explore offering a financial reward to residents of islands that achieve a complete cessation of tobacco use.
In a post shared on his official X account, the President said he has instructed relevant ministers to study the proposal and prepare an implementation paper. The reward, once approved, would be deposited directly into the bank accounts of all residents of participating islands.
The initiative aligns with the Administration’s broader vision of creating a healthier, tobacco-free Maldives. President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed his commitment to tackling the nation’s key challenges, a commitment he continues to demonstrate through policy and action.
One such measure was the ratification of an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, on 21 May 21. The legislation establishes a generational ban on tobacco use and will take effect in November. It prohibits the sale of tobacco products to individuals born on or after January 1, 2007, effectively phasing out tobacco use among future generations.
The government is also taking steps to restrict access to tobacco products. These include expanding tobacco-free zones, banning the import and possession of equipment used to manufacture e-cigarettes and vapes, raising the legal age for purchasing tobacco to 21, banning tobacco advertising and sponsorships, and increasing taxes on tobacco products.
In recognition of these efforts, the World Health Organisation (WHO) presented President Dr Muizzu with a special award on this year’s World No Tobacco Day.