President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on the public to view the Government’s reforms not as restrictions, but as progress towards building a healthier future. He shared this message in a post on his official X account to mark World No Tobacco Day.
In his post, the President reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to preventative healthcare. He highlighted the Government’s bold measures to protect future generations from harm, including the vaping ban set in 2024 and the recent ratification of the Second Amendment to the Tobacco Control Act, which introduces a generational tobacco ban.
The Government is taking bold strides in tobacco control, with stringent legislation and forward-looking policies that align closely with international commitments, global best practices, and national plans. Under the landmark generational ban, the sale, purchase, and use of tobacco products are strictly prohibited for individuals born on or after January 1, 2007. This represents a major step towards creating a tobacco-free generation.
In his World No Tobacco Day message, the President called for unity, not only in remaining vigilant against the deceptive tactics of the tobacco industry, but also in making determined efforts to counter their lies, protect public health, and safeguard future generations from the scourge of tobacco. He emphasised that the tobacco industry deliberately targets young people by making tobacco products appealing through attractive designs, colours, flavours, and creative marketing, drawing them into addiction before they even realise it.