The National Drug Agency (NDA) has hosted a special awareness event, ‘Emmen Ekee’ in Hulhumale’ as part of ongoing efforts to build a drug-free society.
The event was jointly organised by NDA, Housing Development Corporation (HDC), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the Japanese Embassy. The event was officially inaugurated by HDC’s Managing Director Brigadier General (Rtd) Ali Zuhair and Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko.
Government ministries, state agencies as well as companies participated by setting up stalls at the event.
Speaking at the ceremony, Zuhair stressed that drug-related issues often arise due to lack of awareness and insufficient collaboration.
"Today, we can all work together to resolve these challenges by equipping the community with the important information they need,” he said.
Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko said the younger generation is the foundation of the future, and priority must be given to protecting them from drugs. The strongest way to deal with these issues is through education, raising awareness, and through positive engagement, she said.
State Minister for Homeland Security and Technology, and NDA’s Chairperson Lubna Mohamed Zahir told PSM News that drug abuse remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the Maldives. She noted that NDA’s main objective is to save future generations from such dangerous behaviours.
"Our purpose is to share information as closely as possible with the public,” she said.
The event featured stalls with interactive activities for children of different age groups, designed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use. The Maldives Police Service also showcased uniforms and vehicles used in various operations.