The Maldives' Health Protection Agency (HPA) has released guidelines with a focus on encouraging people to opt for healthier activities when attending functions organized by government entities.
In August, the agency issued directives pertaining to the planning of sports events, fairs, music shows, competitions, meetings, and rallies by government offices and companies.
The guidelines are structured into three key components. Firstly, they recommend promoting healthy activities and discouraging tobacco product promotion to encourage a healthier lifestyle.
Secondly, a strong emphasis is placed on environmental and hygiene considerations. The guidelines stress the importance of ensuring food and water safety and hygiene.
Finally, government offices and companies are also urged to take precautionary measures, including first aid, to prevent accidents.
To promote healthier lifestyles, the guidelines suggest providing attendees with breaks for exercise, hydration, and prayer instead of offering smoking breaks during government events.
The guidelines make it mandatory to offer healthy food and beverages at these events, with an emphasis on providing water and fruits. They also discourage the inclusion of processed fish, junk food, oily and sugary snacks and sausages. Additionally, they emphasized that energy drinks, betel nut (supari), and tobacco products should not be served.
In line with the agency's policy, individuals engaged in prolonged seated activities are encouraged to take regular breaks for stretching and exercise, with standing up recommended at least once every one and a half hour.
Government agencies and companies are expected to adhere to these guidelines, and the Social Council has taken it upon itself to oversee and implement these directives, as stated by the Health Protection Agency.
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