The Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has highly commended President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration for its unwavering dedication to public health, citing the landmark move to ban tobacco for future generations as evidence of the President's personal commitment to public health and well-being.
Speaking to PSM News on the sidelines of President’s ongoing tour of Addu City, Minister Nazim affirmed that the administration is taking every necessary step to ensure the health of the people, noting that significant positive changes are expected in the health system during this term.
Minister Nazim emphasised that improving the nation's health infrastructure has been a long-standing public demand, a priority now reflected by the administration's financial commitments. He highlighted that the largest segment of the state budget for next year has been strategically allocated to the health sector, underscoring the deep importance President Dr Muizzu places on healthcare.
The Minister proudly stated that the Maldives is the first country globally to rollout a generational tobacco ban, calling it a crucial decision driven by the President’s commitment for improving public health.
This unprecedented move is complemented by other bold policies designed to curb tobacco addiction and consumption, including increased import duties on cigarettes to discourage use. Additionally, the administration has enforced a total legislative ban on the importation, sale, and use of electronic cigarettes and vape products across the archipelago.
These decisive actions, which the President has urged the public to support in eradicating health hazards from society, have received substantial international recognition.
President Dr Muizzu has been lauded by foreign media outlets and major international bodies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), which recently presented him with a special award acknowledging these groundbreaking public health measures.