The Health Centre in Landhoo, Noonu Atoll, has begun 24-hour operations, fulfilling a central policy commitment by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim inaugurated the expanded service at a ceremony attended by local council members, heads of island institutions, and senior officials from the Health Ministry.
For the island’s population of about 1,100, the change represents a significant improvement. Until now, the centre operated for 16 hours daily, leaving residents in need of urgent care at night to travel to neighbouring islands.
In his remarks, the minister noted that extending services in more populous islands such as Landhoo strengthens the overall delivery of healthcare nationwide. He said the government’s policy of reinforcing island health facilities is expected to provide substantial benefits, offering residents both immediate access and long-term assurance.
The transition ensures that emergency medical services are available locally at any time, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming travel during medical crises. Officials noted that the initiative will reduce the burden of travel and ease the financial strain associated with seeking treatment elsewhere.
The government has reiterated that its broader objective is to fortify the health system across the atolls, ensuring that high-quality healthcare is accessible to every island community in the country.