Govt to build mental health hospital in Malé region

President Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the government will develop a dedicated mental health hospital in the Greater Malé region using state budget funding.

Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office on Monday, the President said the capital region requires a facility focused on mental health treatment.

He said mental health issues in the Maldives require further intervention and that the government had decided to finance the project directly through the national budget.

“Mental health issues are a significant concern in the Maldives. It has reached a point where further intervention is necessary,” he said.

The President said the Greater Malé region has the country’s highest population concentration and a high number of people seeking treatment.

According to figures cited by the President, 8,125 people in Malé accessed treatment for mental health consultations through Aasandha between 1 January and 24 April this year.

He added that many residents from the atolls also travel to the capital for services, making the region a suitable location for the facility.

The project will proceed through the public procurement process, he said.

President Muizzu also stated that a Mental Health Bill would be submitted to the People's Majlis.

He further said the government is working on legislation to criminalise bullying, citing links between bullying and mental health concerns.

The President also clarified that the previously announced mental health hospital project in Laamu Gan has not been cancelled. He said that project had been planned through foreign loan financing and would be reviewed later.