Health Minister Labels Current Anti-Tobacco Initiatives Most Significant in Recent Years

The Maldives has launched its most aggressive campaign against tobacco use in years, focusing on protecting youth and curbing the rise of vaping. Health Minister Geela Ali announced that the current administration is prioritizing public health by implementing strict measures to discourage smoking and other harmful habits. Speaking at a World No Tobacco Day ceremony in Mulah, Meemu Atoll, Minister Ali contrasted the present government's approach with previous administrations. She stated that past tobacco control efforts were often ineffective or delayed, whereas current strategies are driven by rigorous planning and decisive execution. Among the key milestones achieved over the last two years is the introduction of a generational ban on tobacco. This landmark policy is designed to ensure that future generations are legally barred from accessing tobacco products. Additionally, the government has implemented a comprehensive ban on the import and sale of electronic cigarettes, vapes, and related products to stem the tide of nicotine addiction among young people. Addressing this year's World No Tobacco Day theme, Minister Ali emphasized that smoking should not be viewed merely as a personal choice or an accident. Instead, she framed it as a critical public health crisis fueled by the strategic interests of the tobacco industry. She stressed the urgent need for increased awareness campaigns specifically targeting children and adolescents. To support these goals, the government launched a nationwide tobacco control campaign on May 31. The initiative involves a multi-sectoral approach, bringing together citizens, government institutions, and civil society organizations. The campaign's primary focus areas include public awareness, the provision of cessation support services for those attempting to quit, and the more stringent enforcement of existing tobacco laws across the archipelago.