Friday
5th Dec 2025
Dhivehi Edition
The government has launched a public consultation on a proposal to offer financial benefits to residents of islands that completely ban tobacco use.
On June 24, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu directed ministers to conduct a study and prepare a policy paper on rewarding tobacco-free islands. The President is considering direct monetary rewards to residents, with funds deposited into individual bank accounts.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) began gathering public feedback yesterday to better understand public sentiment, identify implementation challenges, and gather suggestions for future improvements. The HPA emphasized that the findings will inform national tobacco control policies.
Sample questions in the HPA’s survey include:
- How much do you support financial assistance for tobacco-free islands?
- Do you believe direct financial rewards to residents are fair?
- Is this approach sustainable and effective?
- Would living in a tobacco-free island motivate you to quit?
- Should penalties be imposed on tobacco users in these islands?
The survey also collects views on the upcoming generational tobacco ban and general awareness of tobacco control policies.
The Maldives has recently intensified efforts to reduce tobacco use. These include:
- Implementing a generational tobacco ban starting this November
- Expanding no-smoking zones
- Banning the import and possession of e-cigarette manufacturing tools
- Raising the legal tobacco sales age to 21
- Prohibiting tobacco advertising and sponsorship
- Increasing tobacco taxes
In recognition of these policies, the World Health Organization awarded President Muizzu a special honor on World No Tobacco Day this year.