President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has been named in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in Health 2026, in recognition of his leadership and policy measures advancing public health and preventive care in the Maldives.
The recognition highlights the Government’s strong focus on preventive healthcare and tobacco control measures introduced under the leadership of President Dr Muizzu. These include a generational tobacco ban, which prohibits anyone born after January 2007 from purchasing tobacco products, as well as a nationwide ban on the import, sale, and use of vapes and e-cigarettes. The measures form part of a broader national plan to eliminate smoking and tobacco use.
In his interview with the magazine, the President noted that Government policy had traditionally focused on curative responses to health issues rather than preventive measures. He emphasised that his Administration has sought to place equal focus on both prevention and treatment.
Additional nationwide initiatives include the establishment of free tobacco cessation clinics across the islands and the introduction of a free 24-hour mental health helpline. The Maldives has also achieved the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B, marking a significant public health milestone.
The President further highlighted that these initiatives were implemented collectively to bring about meaningful, measurable, and sustainable improvements to the health and lifestyle of the nation.
TIME magazine is a leading global publication recognised for its reporting on news, culture, and public affairs. Its TIME100 Health list identifies leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators worldwide whose work has a measurable impact on health systems and outcomes, shining a spotlight on those driving meaningful change in public health.
The President’s inclusion reflects growing international recognition of the Maldives’ progress in the health sector and the Government’s continued commitment to people-centred health priorities.
