Minister of Health Ahmed Naseem has stated that drug treatment and rehabilitation centres will soon be available through the health centres in all islands of the Maldives. He made the statement during the opening ceremony of the Halfway Centre established for women held in Hulhumale'.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Naseem said that one of the biggest issues in the Maldives at the moment is drug abuse. He, therefore, said that efforts are being made to arrange treatment throughout the country.
Additionally, Minister Naseem said an assessment of drug treatment centres has been conducted and treatment programmes have been reviewed. He said that the staff needed to expand the service to the atolls in the Maldives have been trained. He also said that avoiding drugs is a decision that everyone should make for themselves and that society should be more of a place to give advice and care for such individuals.
During the ceremony, Minister of the President's Office and Vice Chairman of the Social Council Dr. Mustafa Lutfi said the threat of drugs in society is greater than the threat of pandemics like COVID-19. He pointed out it is one of the reasons for the increase in mental illnesses in the country. He also mentioned that it is one of the areas where human resources need to be developed the most in the country. He, therefore, said the government is also working to train psychologists and counsellors for the purpose.