Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has said that the main objective of the current Administration’s health policy is to build a healthy individual, a healthy family, a healthy society, and a healthy Maldivian nation.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the National Torch Run held to celebrate the implementation of the Generational Ban on Tobacco, Minister Nazim described good health as the greatest blessing a person can have, adding that true gratitude lies in safeguarding it through a healthy lifestyle.

He explained that the Government’s health policy prioritises the dissemination of accurate health information, the prevention of diseases, and the provision of treatment in collaboration with all relevant institutions. Highlighting that many health problems in the Maldives are linked to unhealthy habits and lifestyle choices, he stressed the importance of educating children early on to promote long-term wellbeing.

The Generational Ban on Tobacco will come into effect nationwide from 1 November. Under the ban, individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 will be prohibited from purchasing or using tobacco products. Minister Nazim described this as a historic and bold decision aimed at protecting younger generations, calling for the active participation of all citizens to ensure the successful implementation of the policy.

The National Torch Run, held under the theme “Together for a Healthy Generation”, was organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, the Health Protection Agency (HPA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and various State institutions and companies. The 24-hour event, running from 4:00 p.m. today to 4:00 p.m. tomorrow at the Maafannu Ekuveni Track, aims to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and encourage healthier lifestyles.

Cabinet ministers, athletes, sports club members, and employees from state-owned enterprises joined the event to show support. Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Director of HPA Hassan Mohamed said the Generational Ban seeks to protect future generations from tobacco addiction and instil self-sufficient, health-conscious habits from an early age.

WHO Resident Representative to the Maldives, Ms Peden, commended the initiative as a courageous move by a small island nation, stating that the WHO fully supports the Maldives’ leadership in prioritising a tobacco-free future.