Healthcare to be prioritized in next year's budget, quality services to be established: President

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated last night that next year's budget will have the healthcare sector be the top priority, with the best quality in healthcare services being established in Maldives.

President Muizzu gave a speech to residents of Lh. Naifaru while on his Lhaviyani Atoll and Kaafu Atoll visit that began yesterday. President Muizzu stated that next year will see a decrease in major expenses and using Aasandha to seek medical services internationally, with top quality healthcare services to be established in Maldives.

The President said that next year's budget will have the healthcare sector be the top priority.

“Hopefully, people will be satisfied with this, along with the improvements that come with good health,” said President Muizzu.

The President said that his policy is to heavily invest in the healthcare industry. He also said that necessary steps will be taken to ensure illness does not take hold, with the government taking the necessary measures in establishing services that will treat illnesses in Maldives.

President Muizzu said that there are various projects that have been prioritized and are ongoing in that regard.

As per the President, ensuring the health and safety of citizens is a big investment, and is important socially and economically. 

President Muizzu went on to say that smoking is one of the main causes of illness, noting that several measures have been taken to reduce tobacco use. He pointed to the Tobacco Generation Ban as an example.

The President said that the prices of tobacco products and cigarettes were increased in order to distance people from them and build a healthy community. He also said that people should take the initiative in moving away from smoking cigarettes.

President Muizzu said that the illegal smuggling and sale of cigarettes must not be tolerated.

“I call on all beloved citizens to distance yourselves from this. Only then can we become a healthy community,” he said.

The president added that after healthcare, education is the next priority in the national budget, stressing the importance of further developing those who have advanced in the field.