Rehabilitation and prevention are at the core of the Government's strategy to tackle drug abuse, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated, adding that lasting solutions require addressing the root causes of addiction while helping affected individuals rebuild their lives.

Speaking in the third episode of The Pulse podcast, released today, the President said the Government has adopted a holistic and comprehensive approach to combating drug abuse. The episode coincided with the recent observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The President said the Government's priority is to rescue young people affected by drug abuse and support them in becoming productive members of society. Stressing that addiction stems from multiple social and economic factors, he said the issue cannot be resolved through short-term measures alone but requires sustained efforts to address its underlying causes.

He identified housing challenges and past development policies as major factors contributing to the problem, adding that the Government's anti-drug strategy is closely linked with broader social empowerment initiatives. These include resolving the housing crisis, creating employment and income opportunities for young people, supporting small businesses, expanding access to education, strengthening healthcare services, and enabling women and stay-at-home individuals to earn an income from home.

President Dr Muizzu also announced plans to establish a modern rehabilitation and social reintegration facility for young offenders. He said a dedicated area has been earmarked for reclamation in Uthuru Thila Falhu for the project, separate from the land being reclaimed to address Malé's housing needs.

Describing the project as highly capital-intensive, the President said the evaluation of submitted proposals is underway after time was spent securing funding. He expressed confidence that construction would begin soon and that tangible progress would be made within the current presidential term.

Moderated by Chief Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef, The Pulse podcast featured questions from The Press newspaper as well as members of the public on issues of national interest.