The government is working to establish a strong and sustainable system to develop sport nationwide, Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu said last night.
Speaking at the Maldives Sports Awards ceremony held at the Social Centre in Male', Minister Rafiu said every initiative and programme launched by the government to promote sport is being implemented within a structured framework designed for long-term sustainability.
“Sports should not be limited to Mae' area,” he said, adding that facilities in the atolls would be upgraded to host various international competitions.
“There are talented players in every atoll and it is our responsibility to develop those skills. With the amendments to the Sports Act, an appropriate system will be established to achieve this,” he said.
Minister Rafiu said sports infrastructure and training programmes are now aligned with the government’s 20-year national development plan. The sports ministry has also formulated a 20-year master plan for the sector.
“Our vision is not to make every place we build just a venue to play sport. We are building a strong system to promote sports in a sustainable manner,” he said.
Under the national development plan, the Maldives aims to secure a medal at the Asian Games within the next 15 years and an Olympic medal within 20 years.
Minister Rafiu highlighted recent milestones, including Fathimath Dheema Ali qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Games, and the Maldives men’s and women’s surfing teams earning places at this year’s Asian Games in Japan.
He also highlighted the Maldives men’s victory in the inaugural SAFF Futsal Championship, adding that work on a new indoor arena is set to begin this year.
