President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that this administration lays more emphasis on human development than urban development. The President made this statement while speaking at the opening ceremony of the “National Symposium on Traditional and Alternative Medicine” held at Hotel Jen this morning as part of the 100 day pledges of this administration.
In his speech, the President noted the importance of individual well-being for the development of the nation and stated that true development lies in physical improvement. He also stated the significance of the role ‘good health’ plays in mental progress which in turn contributes to the development of the nation.
On a different note the President highlighted that Maldivian traditional medicine is part of our culture and heritage and emphasized on the importance of preserving the practice for future generations. He also said that this should be further augmented by applying the same principles of western medicine.
Speaking in this regard the President stated that Maldivian traditional medicine was passed on to us from generation to generation through hands-on training and experimentation rather than teaching from books.
Moreover, President stated that Maldivian traditional medicine is also an important component of the overall health structure in the Maldives. In order to revive and promote this component, the President emphasized on the importance of creating a medical institute to teach the practice of traditional and alternative medicine.
The President said that despite the technological advances brought to modern-day medicine, no country has bid farewell to the use of alternative medicine. He pointed out that every country incorporates modern-day tools to promote and develop their own traditional medicine.
Highlighting how medicine is one component of a healthy life, the President noted that good lifestyle habits and a healthy diet is vital to live a healthy and fulfilling life. He further advised everyone to embody healthy habits and instil such lifestyle practices in children starting from early childhood.
Continuing on, President Solih disappointedly noted that our lifestyle has always revolved around certain harmful habits, and that especially with the convenience of modern technology, we are becoming less active and more fatigued. He pointed out that the definitive solution for healthier living is to follow a healthy diet, and be more active. He also urged all Maldivians to focus on prevention and prioritise healthy living, apart from solely depending on medicinal remedies.