A new television series titled Hahtah is set to be launched in the Maldives as part of a nationwide campaign to encourage healthier eating habits and lifestyles, particularly in light of the country’s growing senior citizen population.

The 13-episode programme will be produced and broadcast through a partnership between the Ministry of Social and Family Development, Unied Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Public Service Media (PSM), and State Trading Organization (STO). A formal agreement signing ceremony was held to mark the beginning of the project.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Social and Family Development Dr Aishath Shiham said the series is designed to raise awareness on the importance of healthy diets, particularly for ageing individuals. She noted that one of the most common concerns expressed by senior citizens living in island communities is how to adopt better eating habits to maintain good health.

The Minister also stated that the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the country is closely linked to dietary habits. She explained that Hahtah aims to educate the public on preparing nutritious meals using ingredients that are locally available and affordable, which is a critical step in preparing for an ageing population.

UNFPA Head of Office Shadiya Ibrahim also spoke at the ceremony, reflecting on the positive response Hahtah received when it was previously piloted in Isravvehinge Naadhee. She said the upcoming series would continue to share practical information on healthy living and would encourage people of all ages to take better care of their health before reaching old age.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development added that the programme will include practical guidance on healthy habits, recipes for nutritious meals, and other information to support overall wellbeing.