President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has appealed to all citizens to exercise self-responsibility to cooperate with efforts of the administration to contain the COVID-19 situation in Maldives.
Addressing the nation following the declaration of a State of Public Health Emergency in Maldives, President Solih said this is the time to work together to face the global pandemic rather than panicking. The president stated all authorities, government and public sector, experts and public must work together in this situation. He called to follow guidelines by technical health experts and to improve self-hygiene and health.
Furthermore, President Solih advised to refrain from attending large gatherings and to halt travel unless necessary. The president said measures were enacted by the administration in the first week of January as per recommendations of World Health Organisation (WHO) to control the spread of COVID-19.
Noting 8 positive cases have been identified in Maldives, the president said necessary measures were taken swiftly. He underlined isolation and quarantine of individuals identified during contact tracing are underway as required by the guidelines.
Furthermore, President Solih underscored authorities are taking necessary measures in accordance with international guidelines, mentioning however, the responsibility of public is imperative in containing the virus.
Shedding light on the economic situation of the country, the president said as Maldives is heavily dependent on tourism sector, which is affected by the spread of COVID-19 worldwide, the economic impact of the spread of the disease is high. Moreover, the president assured food and medical supplies for the whole nation will be covered, adding no shortages will be faced.
In addition, following remarks from public regarding salary reduction, the president reiterated salaries of civil servants will not be reduced. However, he noted strict measures will be enacted to reduce government expenses, which includes cutting back trips by state authorities, maintenance and renovations of office buildings.