The Health Protection Agency (HPA) and Male' City Council have held discussions on establishing designated smoking kiosks in various parts of Male'.

The city council said in a social media post that Deputy Mayor Meekail Mohamed Naseem and members of its health committee had discussed the proposal with the HPA.

The council said the initiative was part of its efforts to reduce smoking in public places and create a cleaner and healthier environment in the capital.

However, the arrangements which had been agreed during the discussions with HPA was not disclosed.

In August, Hulhumale' North MP Fathimath Zahiya (Zaya) proposed that the council work with relevant authorities to address smoking in public places.

She also suggested asking police to take legal action against people who smoke in public areas.

Zahiya said she had received complaints from parents who take their children to public spaces, particularly parks, and face difficulties because of people smoking in those areas.

She said exposure to smoke in public places was a concern for many people and could adversely affect children’s health.

The import and use of vaping products has been banned under the Tobacco Control Act since November 2024. The minimum legal age for buying and selling tobacco products in the Maldives is 21.

Anyone who imports vaping devices or products in violation of the law can be fined MVR50,000, with an additional MVR10,000 fine for each electronic cigarette or vape imported.