The Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, has described the decision to ban vapes in the Maldives as a historic step that will bring long-term health benefits to the nation.

Speaking on MMTV Bodu Khabaru programme, the Minister stated that the effects of this policy would be seen in future generations and would be recognised as a positive change in public health history.

Minister Nazim acknowledged that banning vapes and restricting tobacco use are not easy decisions, but he expressed confidence that the majority of Maldivians support the Government’s stance.

He noted that while adapting to such policy changes can be challenging, the long-term health benefits outweigh the difficulties. He also highlighted that changing public behaviour, particularly when it involves long-established habits, is one of the biggest challenges faced by governments worldwide.

According to the Minister, vaping in the Maldives had reached unprecedented levels, prompting widespread calls for restrictions to curb its rapid spread. He also noted that parents had voiced concerns over their children’s exposure to vaping, yet previous administrations failed to take action, allowing its use to become increasingly widespread.