Universal Foundation, Tiny Hearts of Maldives launch nationwide cardiac rehabilitation programme
Universal Foundation and Tiny Hearts of Maldives have officially partnered to implement a nationwide Community-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation (CBCR) Program aimed at improving heart health awareness and prevention across the Maldives.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on 18th May 2026 with Organising secretary Fathimath Shabeena, representing Universal Foundation, and Chairperson, Jeehan Mahmoud representing Tiny Hearts of Maldives.
Planned as a one-year initiative, the program The Community-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation (CBCR) Program is designed to strengthen secondary prevention, promote lifestyle modification, and enhance functional recovery among individuals with or at risk of cardiovascular diseases. early intervention. This community intervention with train primary healthcare providers, community, physiotherapists, or sports counsellors at the island level, enhancing service accessibility across decentralised health facilities.
This initiative marks a significant step in Tiny Hearts of Maldives’ strategic expansion, from focusing primarily on children’s heart health to addressing cardiovascular wellbeing on a broader scale.
The Maldives’ unique island geography presents distinct challenges that contribute to elevated risks of heart disease. These include limited access to specialised cardiac care, increasing reliance on processed diets, and a steadily aging population. Together, these environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to a rise in CVD risk factors such as high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and hypertension—comorbid conditions that become increasingly life-threatening with age.
According to the Maldives Bureau of Statistics, the country’s aging population is expected to grow significantly by 2062, potentially intensifying the national burden of cardiovascular diseases if preventative measures are not strengthened. In this context, the community cardiac rehabilitation program offers an accessible and scalable intervention model, particularly for older populations.
Recognised by the World Heart Federation, Tiny Hearts of Maldives has led numerous initiatives supporting families affected by congenital heart disease. The organisation was founded in memory of Keyaan, a tiny heart who lost his life to congenital heart disease and has since transformed that loss into a mission of saving lives through awareness, advocacy, and support.
Through this partnership, Universal Foundation reinforces its commitment to improving long-term community health outcomes. By supporting Tiny Hearts of Maldives, the Foundation aims to contribute meaningfully to the overall wellbeing of the Maldivian population through focused efforts in health.
