President Dr Muizzu has reaffirmed that his Administration will prioritise not only national development but also address critical societal challenges, with a particular focus on combating drug-related issues.

Speaking to the residents of AA Rasdhoo, the President highlighted that one of the most significant challenges faced in Maldives is drug abuse—a problem that has persisted for over four decades. He emphasised that the Maldives can only promote itself as an attractive destination on the global stage if it establishes itself as a safe and stable nation.

The President compared efforts made this year to those of the previous year in combating drug-related issues. He revealed that undocumented foreign nationals are responsible for a substantial portion of the drug trade. In the current year alone, 153 foreign nationals have been detained and deported—twice as many as last year. Additionally, 655 kilograms of drugs, with an estimated street value of MVR 1.3 billion, have been seized and destroyed. Over the past year, 13,435 suspected drug-dealing establishments were raided, compared to 8,581 in the prior year.

President Dr Muizzu also assured the public that his Administration would not tolerate individuals within law enforcement who enable or compromise drug cases.

He further stated that the Drugs Act, currently under discussion in Parliament, would be instrumental in addressing this long-standing issue, and emphasised the importance of public collaboration in achieving meaningful progress.