President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has been awarded the World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General’s Special Award, recognising his bold and impactful initiatives to curb tobacco use in the Maldives.
The prestigious accolade is part of WHO’s annual recognition programme, which honours individuals and organisations across its six global regions for exceptional contributions to tobacco control. In 2025, the organisation is honouring thirty-six global figures, with only one recipient selected for the Director-General’s Special Recognition Certificate.
President Muizzu was recognised for his government’s decisive policies aimed at reducing tobacco consumption, including a nationwide ban on the import, sale, and use of vape products, and a sharp increase in import duties on cigarettes. Notably, his administration introduced a generational smoking ban, which prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2007—a groundbreaking step that has drawn praise from international health bodies.
Congratulations Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu), President, #Maldives 🇲🇻, for receiving the WHO Director-General Special award, for #tobacco control, saving lives and creating a healthier future for all.
#WHA78 #NoTobacco pic.twitter.com/RTChnjfFyj
— World Health Organization South-East Asia (@WHOSEARO) May 19, 2025
The Ministry of Health and Wellness of Mauritius also received the Director-General’s Special Award alongside President Muizzu for its work in tobacco control.
The WHO has commended the Maldives for being the first country in the South-East Asia region to implement a generational smoking ban, calling it a bold and visionary step. The organisation noted that this move sets an important precedent for regional health initiatives and supports the long-term goal of a tobacco-free generation.
Under President Muizzu’s leadership, the Maldivian government has completed all the necessary legal steps to enforce the generational ban. The targeted age group was determined through a public poll conducted via social media, reflecting broad community engagement in shaping public health policy.
Since taking office, President Muizzu has prioritised the health and well-being of Maldivians, with tobacco control standing out as a central pillar of his public health agenda.