The majority of respondents have favoured enforcing the generational ban on tobacco use in the country for people born on or after the year 2000.
To back his Administration’s firm stance against tobacco use in the country, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu launched a special poll to gather public opinion on the appropriate age at which the Generation Ban on tobacco use should be enforced.
As part of his proposal, the President outlined three potential approaches for the ban:
• Prohibiting smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2007
• Prohibiting smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2004
• Prohibiting smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2000
Explaining the rationale behind these options, he stated that focusing on the 18–25 age group would make it easier to prevent addiction before it becomes a habit.
The poll, launched on Thursday, sought public opinion on the three recommendations. This marked the first instance in Maldivian history where a sitting President has utilised a social media platform to seek public opinion on a significant issue.
When the poll closed on Tuesday afternoon, over 5,500 people had voted on X with 51.1 percent favouring the prohibition of smoking for all individuals born on or after 1 January 2000.
The poll on Facebook followed a similar trend with 72 percent of the 5,000 voters backing the same option.
Over 45 percent of the voters on Instagram too want to see the generational ban enforced for people born on or after 1 January 2000.
Emphasising the purpose of the Generation Ban, the President has stated that it is designed to ensure young people never start using tobacco, with further details to be shared later.
The Generation Ban has been adopted in various countries around the world to keep young people from starting tobacco use.
Beyond tobacco control, the President has highlighted broader health initiatives, including efforts to make fruits and vegetables more affordable. He has reiterated the government's commitment to promoting a healthier lifestyle for all citizens.
The government has been taking landmark steps against tobacco use. One of the biggest measures was to increase the duty on imported cigarettes and the nationwide ban on use and sale of vape products.