President Mohamed Muizzu has clarified that the government has no plans to ban shisha or remove subsidies on sugar products, stressing that the administration’s approach will instead focus on raising public awareness about health impacts.
The President made the remarks while addressing a political rally held at Artificial Beach on Saturday night to launch the People’s National Congress policy platform titled “The Greater Addu.”
“It is not our policy to implement additional bans. We have no intention of banning shisha or cutting sugar subsidies. Our objective is to raise awareness,” President Muizzu told supporters at the rally.
He noted that long established habits within Maldivian society cannot be addressed simply through bans, emphasizing that the government believes education and awareness campaigns are more effective in guiding healthier choices among the public.
The President also reaffirmed that the government remains committed to informing citizens about the health risks associated with smoking and excessive sugar consumption as part of broader efforts to promote public health.
His remarks come after comments made earlier by Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim during a press conference at the President’s Office. Responding to a question from journalists, the minister had said discussions were ongoing regarding a possible ban on shisha and the removal of subsidies on sugar.
President Muizzu said the government’s position had been misrepresented in public discussions, prompting him to clarify that neither measure is currently under consideration.
He added that the administration has already taken several major steps aimed at improving public health, including increasing duties on cigarettes and introducing a nationwide ban on vaping products.
According to the President, the broader objective of these measures is to build a healthier society while encouraging responsible lifestyle choices among Maldivians.
