Health

Significant changes have been introduced to the health sector, including opening applications for Thalassemia allowances and expanding Aasandha coverage for therapy and mental health services. Meanwhile, IGMH has apologized over the death of an infant under its care, and Ahmed Nimal, who suffered a serious stroke, has been transferred to the hospital for further treatment. Additionally, amid debates regarding Aasandha coverage for Maldivians residing abroad, breast cancer statistics for recent years were released, and new laboratory services have been inaugurated.

The Ministry has introduced new digital software for health centers and arranged for eyeglasses to be available through Aasandha at private clinics and optical shops. Minister Dr. Nazim highlighted advancements in healthcare infrastructure and human resources, while statistics reveal approximately 500 stroke-related deaths at IGMH over the past four years.

Key health and social developments today include the opening of a pediatric clinic at Maafannu Urban Health Centre, the commencement of the new Huraa Health Centre building, and STO addressing medicine shortages. Notable legal updates include a 15-year sentence for a convicted rapist named Izam, progress in the Sunny Umar case, and an increase in reported child abuse cases. Additionally, police reported a decline in gang crimes, while several arrests were made regarding child abuse on TikTok Live, drug offenses, and foreign currency violations.

thought Services at the K. Huraa Health Centre have been expanded with the introduction of laboratory services, while the construction of Alif Alif Rasdhoo Hospital is progressing rapidly. Additionally, the Ministry of Health has commenced research into 'poetry therapy' as part of broader national efforts to advance the healthcare sector and ensure a stable supply of medicine.

A specialized pediatric clinic has opened in Male', and construction of the HA. Atoll Hospital is progressing rapidly. Additionally, an eye camp and health activities were held in Maafushi, a study on using poetry for mental health treatment was conducted, and a training program for Maldivian therapists has commenced.

As of December 26, 2025, significant shortages of weight-loss medications and medical supplies have been reported. This scarcity is severely impacting the healthcare sector and creating major challenges for patients seeking necessary treatments.

Key events in the Maldives on December 25, 2025, included the sentencing in the murder case of a 13-year-old and the postponement of the K-Park hearing due to the absence of "Manday." A fire on a speedboat in Maafushi was successfully extinguished. Security forces arrested several suspects with a large quantity of drugs during a special operation in Hulhumalé, seized 40kg of drugs smuggled in chocolate syrup bottles, and detained three individuals for attacking a police officer. Additionally, the Anti-Scam Center recovered 37% of funds lost to scams. Other developments included a mosquito control program in Bodufolhudhoo and site visits for the design phase of Vilingili Hospital.