President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has instructed his Cabinet to evaluate the feasibility of offering direct financial incentives to island communities that successfully eliminate tobacco use.

In a post shared today on his official 'X' account, President Dr. Muizzu announced that relevant ministers have been tasked with drafting an implementation plan for the initiative. 

If approved, the government will transfer cash rewards directly into the bank accounts of residents living on islands that achieve complete tobacco cessation.

This proposal is part of the administration’s broader agenda to build a healthier, smoke-free Maldives. 

The President emphasized his continued commitment to confronting public health challenges with bold policy action.

Among recent milestones is the ratification of a landmark amendment to the Tobacco Control Act (Law No. 15/2010) on May 21, 2025. 

The amendment introduces a generational ban that will prohibit the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2007. 

The law is set to come into effect this November.

In parallel, the government has been tightening tobacco regulations nationwide. 

These measures include:

- Expanding smoke-free public zones

- Raising the legal purchasing age for tobacco to 21

- Banning the import and possession of vaping and e-cigarette manufacturing equipment

- Banning all forms of tobacco advertising and sponsorship

- Increasing excise taxes on tobacco products

In recognition of the Maldives’ strong anti-tobacco stance, the World Health Organization awarded President Dr. Muizzu a special honor during this year’s World No Tobacco Day.