Placing the health of newborns at the centre of national priorities is vital for building a thriving society, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has emphasised.

At the opening of the Neonatal Nurses Conference, she underlined that the well-being of infants forms the very foundation of human well-being. The theme of the conference, she noted, is relevant to every family, every individual and to future generations, making cooperation and constructive dialogue among participants crucial to its success.

The First Lady reflected on the difficulties faced in the past, observing that neonatal care in the Maldives had encountered many challenges and tragedies. She stressed the need for faster progress in developing the sector, particularly through the expansion of resources, facilities and skilled professionals.

She also highlighted the importance of investing in human capabilities alongside the adoption of advanced knowledge and modern technologies that are shaping neonatal treatment globally. In her view, keeping pace with the health systems of developed nations is essential if the Maldives is to deliver better care for newborns.

The First Lady expressed confidence that the conference would create opportunities to examine the challenges faced in the country and to seek practical solutions. She concluded by reaffirming that improving newborn health is not only a matter of medical necessity but also a key step towards building a more peaceful, prosperous and happy society.