President Dr Mohamed Muizzu called on the public to avoid activities that harm physical and mental health, urging a collective shift towards healthier lifestyles. The president shared this appeal on social media in a message marking World Health Day, underscoring the importance of well-being.
"Let us prioritise healthy eating, engage in regular physical activity, focus on mental well-being, as well as refrain from activities that harm our physical and mental health," he stated.
President Dr Muizzu also reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening the nation's healthcare system. "I reaffirm the government's steadfast commitment to working together with all stakeholders to strengthen our health system to foster a community where every citizen can experience a healthy beginning, paving the way for a more resilient future," he said.
World Health Day, observed annually on 7 April, commemorates the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. This year's theme, "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures", focuses on maternal and newborn health, aiming to address preventable deaths and promote the long-term well-being of women and children.
The government has been actively working to enhance the healthcare sector. Preventative measures have become a cornerstone of its approach, ensuring illnesses are addressed before they arise. Central to this effort is the establishment of a nationwide primary healthcare system, designed to provide health screenings and raise awareness about early disease detection.
Progress in healthcare services has also been notable. The administration has upgraded Dharumavantha Hospital and Hulhumalé Hospital to tertiary standards, increasing their bed capacities. Plans to expand the bed capacity of Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) by 117 beds are underway, further strengthening healthcare infrastructure in the Malé region.