Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, and Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, held a meeting to discuss strengthening the enforcement of existing laws that prohibit smoking in unauthorised areas.

The meeting, held at the Ministry of Health, focused on coordinating efforts among key enforcement agencies, including the Maldives Police Service, Maldives Customs Service, and the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

Also present at the meeting were Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau and Commissioner General of Customs Fathimath Dhiyana, who discussed the need for improved collaboration among institutions to ensure compliance with tobacco control laws.

The discussions highlighted the importance of preventing the sale of individual cigarettes, as well as unauthorised smoking of cigarettes, shisha, and the use of vaping devices in cafes, restaurants, and other public areas where smoking is prohibited.

Participants at the meeting agreed to work together to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, particularly in locations where violations are most common.

The meeting comes as part of the Government's broader effort to tighten control on tobacco use. In November 2024, the Maldives enacted a bill banning the import, sale, free distribution, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, including accessories designed for such products.