President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that a national award will be introduced from next year to recognise individuals and organisations making significant contributions to protecting people from tobacco addiction.

Speaking at the official 61st Independence Day ceremony, President Dr Muizzu said the award would recognise those who play a leading role in preventing tobacco use, commending the efforts of civil society organisations working to protect communities from the harms of tobacco.

The announcement came as the President outlined the Government's public health agenda, describing a healthier population as essential to building a self-reliant and independent nation. He said strengthening the health sector remained one of the Administration's highest priorities and reiterated its commitment to reducing the country's long-standing reliance on overseas medical treatment.

Highlighting measures aimed at preventing disease, President Dr Muizzu said the ban on vaping products was introduced to help build a healthier society. He also pointed to the Government's generational tobacco ban, saying the measure was designed to prevent younger generations from becoming addicted to tobacco.

The President also addressed challenges in the pharmaceutical sector, saying previous administrations had been unable to establish a lasting solution to medicine shortages. He said the newly established State Pharmaceuticals would ensure uninterrupted access to quality medicines across the country.