A 32-hour national telethon has concluded in the Maldives, marking the launch of a landmark generational tobacco ban aimed at creating one of the world’s first tobacco-free populations. Organised by the Public Service Media in partnership with local media outlets, the campaign ran continuously from 3:45 p.m. on 31 October until 11:59 p.m. on 1 November, drawing nationwide participation and support.
The broadcast featured interviews with health professionals, religious scholars, and community leaders, alongside testimonials from students, parents, and young people. Designed as a comprehensive public advocacy effort, the telethon sought to raise awareness of the new legislation and galvanise public commitment to its long-term goals.
The generational ban, which took effect on 1 November, prohibits the sale and use of tobacco products by individuals born on or after 1 January 2007. Codified through an amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, the measure criminalises both consumption and commercial access for those born after the cutoff date.
Public mobilisation extended beyond the broadcast. A nationwide run concluded at 4 p.m. on 1 November, drawing 8,959 participants across 65 islands. The event was supported by more than 110 clubs, associations, and community groups, as well as 216 schools. Additional activities included a cessation clinic for current tobacco users, an advocacy stall, live musical performances, and a photo booth.
The telethon also incorporated video submissions from 188 islands and featured contributions from more than 150 individuals, reflecting the scale and reach of the campaign.
Minister of Education Dr Ismail Shafeeu, who participated in the event, cited early signs of success in reducing vaping incidents in schools across the capital region. “Previously, 50 or 60 vape sticks might be found daily in schools in the Malé area,” Dr Shafeeu said. “However, the frequency has diminished so significantly that now only one or two are found over the course of a week. This is a very significant achievement.”
Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu also addressed the campaign, linking the tobacco ban to broader national goals in public health and athletic development. He noted that the prohibition on vaping had already yielded observable benefits among young athletes. “Children’s performance will improve,” Mr Rafiu said. “The effects [of the vaping ban] are already visible through the athletes, and this fact is being highlighted by all parties.”