The Government has decided to establish a mental health hospital in Malé, citing the urgency of the matter as delays continue in the construction of the planned facility in Laamu Gan.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced the decision during a press briefing on Monday, stating that progress on the Gan project has been hindered due to the lack of foreign loan financing.

He said the Government will now proceed with setting up a mental health hospital in Malé using funds already allocated in this year’s State budget.

The President emphasised that the mental health hospital planned for Laamu Gan has not been cancelled and will still be implemented.

From 1 January, the Government has also included mental health treatment under Aasandha coverage.

The President also shared updated figures following the expansion of coverage, noting that as of 23 April, a total of 10,954 individuals have accessed mental health support through Aasandha. Of these, 8,125 are from the Greater Malé area, highlighting the higher demand for services in the capital region.

He further stated that a Mental Health Bill will be introduced this year to strengthen the legal and institutional framework for mental healthcare services in the Maldives.