Sunday 22nd Dec 2024
Dhivehi Edition
Minister Nazim

Minister Nazim: Significant Efforts Underway to Free Maldivians from Tobacco Use

Health Minister Abdulla Nazim, Photo: TMJ
Health Minister Abdullah Nazim Ibrahim has emphasized that significant efforts are being made to free Maldivians from the use of tobacco products. The Minister made this statement during the opening ceremony of a roundtable meeting focused on the recent amendments to the law on protection from narcotics and tobacco control.
Speaking at the event, Minister Ibrahim highlighted that these efforts align with the President’s directive to ensure the Maldivian society becomes a healthier, tobacco-free nation. He noted that the President has taken steps that previous leaders did not pursue, with the aim of improving public health.
The Minister shared that the Ministry is currently working on formulating a National Long-term Plan for Tobacco Control. The paperwork for this plan is expected to be completed by early next year, with implementation to follow.
In addition to the National Plan, the Minister revealed that efforts are underway to establish cessation clinics across the Maldives to support individuals in quitting tobacco use. Training programs for the required personnel are also part of these ongoing initiatives.
Minister Ibrahim further stressed that controlling tobacco use will involve raising awareness about its dangers, enforcing the Tobacco Control Act, and providing necessary assistance to those struggling with addiction. He urged all Maldivians to join the fight against tobacco by supporting these efforts.
The roundtable meeting, organized by the Health Protection Agency and UNICEF, aims to foster discussions on strategies to control tobacco use in the Maldives and to protect children and youth from tobacco’s harmful effects.

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