In a passionate speech at the World Food Safety Day ceremony, First Lady Sajida Mohamed emphasized that ensuring food safety is a civil responsibility that requires the involvement of everyone in society. She highlighted that food safety cannot be achieved by a single agency or institution alone but needs the collective effort of the entire community.
Speaking at the event, First Lady Sajida stressed the significance of commemorating World Food Safety Day as a means to raise public awareness about the critical importance of food safety. She highlighted the necessity of educating the public on how diseases can spread through food and the importance of proper storage and usage of water and food products. Additionally, she encouraged an interest in foods that boost the body's immunity.
"Food is the most important resource for human survival and health. It is needed for the development of human life, human intelligence, and general well-being. There should be awareness and interest about this in society," said First Lady Sajida, who has a background in food safety. Her extensive experience and education in the field lend authority to her call for heightened public consciousness regarding food safety.
The theme for this year’s World Food Safety Day, "food safety: prepare for the unexpected," highlights the intricate connection between health, safety, and food. The First Lady pointed out that this theme underscores the need for society to be vigilant and prepared to handle food safety challenges that may arise unexpectedly.
Furthermore, she praised the recent ratification of the food safety bill by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, describing it as a significant step towards enhancing food safety regulations and ensuring that the necessary legal frameworks are in place to protect the public.
The First Lady’s speech comes at a critical time when global food safety concerns are on the rise. Foodborne illnesses pose a significant risk to public health, and ensuring food safety is essential to prevent outbreaks of diseases that can have severe health and economic impacts.
In her address, First Lady Sajida called on individuals to recognize their role in food safety. She emphasized that each person in the community has a responsibility to adhere to safe food handling practices, whether at home, in schools, or in the workplace. This collective responsibility is crucial for creating a safe food environment for everyone.
The ceremony also included various activities aimed at educating the public about food safety practices. Workshops and seminars were conducted to provide practical knowledge on safe food storage, preparation, and hygiene. The event served as a platform to disseminate important information and resources to help individuals and families maintain food safety in their daily lives.
First Lady Sajida’s call to action is a reminder of the interconnectedness of food safety and public health. By fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility, society can work together to ensure that the food we consume is safe and healthy.
As the Maldives continues to develop and modernize, the importance of maintaining stringent food safety standards cannot be overstated. The recent legislative advancements and the emphasis on public education are positive steps towards achieving this goal. However, it is the collective effort of individuals, families, and communities that will ultimately ensure the safety and well-being of society.
In conclusion, First Lady Sajida Mohamed’s address on World Food Safety Day highlighted the critical importance of food safety as a shared responsibility. Her emphasis on public awareness, education, and collective action serves as a call to all citizens to play their part in ensuring that the food we consume is safe, thereby protecting the health and well-being of the entire community.