A specialised mental health hospital will be developed in the Malé region, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced, outlining a series of measures to strengthen the country’s healthcare system, specifically mental health.
Speaking during his weekly press briefing, the President said the facility will be funded through the state budget, with a 14,000-square-foot plot of land already allocated for the project.
“Due to lengthy procedures, work on such projects had not yet begun. However, as the delay continues, this issue in the Maldives has escalated to a point where further assistance is critical. Therefore, we have discussed and decided to develop this mental health facility directly through the government budget,” he said.
The President highlighted the growing demand for mental health services, noting that more than 10,000 individuals sought treatment for mental health conditions between January and 24 April this year. Of these, over 8,000 were treated in the Malé area.
In addition to the hospital project, the government plans to submit a Mental Health Bill to the People's Majlis this year. The President also announced plans for an “Anti-Bullying” Bill, which would criminalise bullying.
The President also outlined progress in other sectors.
On public finances, he said the Maldives has settled two major outstanding loans and repaid over USD 213 million owed to local businesses.
In the healthcare sector, a state-owned pharmaceutical company has been established, with efforts underway to address challenges in medicine distribution and ensure regular access to medication for patients with chronic conditions.
He added that construction of four general practice (GP) clinics in the Malé region is expected to be completed within the next three to four months. The clinics will be located at the former Thalassaemia Centre in Henveiru, as well as in Hulhumalé Phase I and Phase II.
In the transport sector, the President said the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry service will be expanded to the remaining four atolls within the next three to four months as part of efforts to establish a nationwide transport network.