President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to establish a state-funded mental health hospital in the Greater Malé Region, as the government moves to strengthen mental healthcare services amid rising concerns over mental health issues in the Maldives.
Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office on Monday, Muizzu said the lack of adequate treatment systems for mental health remains a major challenge in Maldivian society and requires urgent intervention.
The President noted that a separate mental health hospital is already planned for Gan, Laamu Atoll through foreign loan assistance. However, he said administrative procedures tied to externally funded projects could delay implementation.
To fast-track services, Muizzu said the government has decided to allocate funding under this year’s “New Policy Initiatives” budget to establish an additional mental health hospital in the Greater Malé area.
He added that until the new facility becomes operational, authorities will work to expand mental health services at existing healthcare centres to ensure immediate support is available for patients.
In a broader push to address mental wellbeing, the President also confirmed that the government is drafting both a Mental Health Bill and an Anti-Bullying Bill, which will be submitted to the People’s Majlis.
According to Muizzu, the anti-bullying legislation will formally define bullying and harassment as legal offences, introduce preventive measures, and establish criminal procedures against offenders.
He said additional policies are also being developed to curb bullying in schools, higher education institutions, healthcare facilities, and workplaces.
The announcement signals a broader government effort to address mental health challenges through both healthcare investment and stronger legal protections.
