The Government is developing its tobacco control strategy through broad stakeholder consultation, technical research, and established evidence, Minister of Health, Family and Welfare Geela Ali has said.

Speaking at a stakeholder consultation meeting for the 'Dhen Huttaalamaa' tobacco cessation campaign, the minister outlined the Government's approach to reducing tobacco use and building a society with stronger protection from the harms of tobacco.

According to Minister Geela, tobacco control has been given significant priority under the current administration, with several major policy measures already introduced.

These include the planned generational tobacco ban, the expansion of free tobacco cessation services across the Maldives, and efforts to increase the involvement of civil society organizations.

She said government targets and implementation milestones are being developed through consultation and research to ensure that policies are practical, effective, and sustainable over the long term.

The consultation brought together representatives from government institutions, healthcare professionals, the education sector, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders.

Their input will contribute to the implementation plan for the Government's five-year national tobacco control campaign.

The 'Dhen Huttaalamaa' campaign was launched on July 27, with the Government already establishing its overall policy direction.

The implementation plan now under development is expected to guide the campaign's activities and tobacco cessation efforts over the coming years.

The Ministry has also opened opportunities for civil society organizations to receive financial assistance for tobacco cessation initiatives.

In addition, the Government plans to recognize individuals and organizations making significant contributions to tobacco control at the national level.

International partners, including UNICEF and WHO, along with relevant institutions and technical experts, are contributing to the development of the campaign and its implementation framework.