President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, has announced plans to establish a dedicated mental health hospital in the Greater Malé Area, highlighting the increasing need to address mental health challenges nationwide.

The announcement was made during a press briefing at the President’s Office of the Maldives, where the President stressed that mental health concerns are becoming more complex and widespread, requiring accessible and comprehensive treatment services.

He noted that while a mental health facility is currently being developed in Gan, Laamu Atoll with external funding, progress on the project has been slower than anticipated.

As a result, the government has decided to move forward with a new hospital in the Greater Malé Area under a revised policy initiative, with funding to be provided domestically and efforts accelerated.

In the interim, the President said steps will be taken to strengthen the capacity of existing healthcare institutions to ensure continuity of mental health services until the new facility is completed.

The President also revealed that work is underway to introduce new legislation addressing mental health and social issues.

These include an Anti-Bullying Act and a Mental Health Bill, both of which are expected to be submitted to the People’s Majlis.

According to the President, the proposed Anti-Bullying legislation will formally define bullying as a criminal offence, establish clear legal definitions, and introduce measures for prevention as well as enforcement against offenders.

He added that broader policy efforts are also being developed to tackle bullying across schools, educational institutions, healthcare settings, and workplaces.