President Calls for Collective Action to Protect Future Generations from Nicotine Addiction

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has called on all stakeholders to protect future generations from nicotine addiction and work collectively towards a healthier, tobacco-free future for the Maldives.

In a message marking World No Tobacco Day, the president said tobacco and nicotine addiction, along with the associated burden of disease, disability, and socio-economic consequences, continue to present a significant challenge to public health and national development in both the Maldives and globally.

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He emphasised the need for governments to renew their commitment to safeguarding people from the harms of tobacco and addressing the tobacco industry’s continued targeting of young people through addictive nicotine products.

The President highlighted several measures introduced to tackle the issue, including the ban on e-cigarettes and the Maldives becoming the first country in the world to implement a Tobacco-Free Generational ban in 2025. He noted that authorities have expanded access to free smoking cessation services and broadened smoke-free jurisdictions to sustain progress towards the long-term goal of a “Tobacco-Free Maldives.”

He also raised concerns over the emergence of flavoured nicotine pouches and the increasing use of artificial intelligence-generated marketing strategies. The president said these evolving threats require continued vigilance and stronger responses.

To address these challenges, he said the Government is continuing to review and strengthen tobacco control measures, including price and tax policies, as well as legislative reforms.

On #WorldNoTobaccoDay, we renew our commitment to protecting our people from the dangers of tobacco and nicotine addiction. From banning e-cigarettes to becoming the first country in the world to implement a Generational Ban on Tobacco, we are taking decisive action to achieve… pic.twitter.com/HprDaPSutZ— Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) May 31, 2026

The President also shared his World No Tobacco Day message on X, highlighting efforts to build a healthier, tobacco-free Maldives.

Meanwhile, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, in her message marking the occasion, underscored the importance of awareness, education and collective action in creating a healthier, tobacco-free generation.