President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has described the ratification of the First Amendment to the Maldives Sports Act as a historic milestone for Maldivian sports, stating that the nation is taking a significant step forward as a new chapter begins in the sporting landscape of the Maldives. He made these remarks during a special ceremony held Monday at the President’s Office to mark the ratification of the First Amendment to the Maldives Sports Act.
The President emphasised that the Amendment represents a transformative moment for the development of sports in the country. He noted that the changes will lead to the decentralisation of sports development, broaden opportunities for athletes, and help elevate all sporting disciplines to professional standards.
During the ceremony, the President explained that the establishment of the National Sports Fund, enabled by the Amendment, will allow for sustained and increased investment in the development of the sports sector. He further noted that alternative employment opportunities will be provided for staff of existing sports corporations, which are set to be dissolved as part of the new legislative changes.
President Dr Muizzu assured that the First Amendment will bring about greater transparency, improved administration, and ensure that the sports sector is governed in line with the principles of good governance. He added that the Amendment paves the way for enhanced sports development opportunities and provides a platform for talented athletes from across the Maldives to compete and grow at both national and international levels. He reiterated that the most impactful change introduced by the Amendment is the decentralisation of sports development, ensuring broader reach and inclusivity.
The President also highlighted that the Maldives Paralympic Committee is now recognised as an independent legal entity with full authority, operating on par with the Maldives Olympic Committee. This move ensures equal sporting opportunities for persons with disabilities. Additionally, this marks the first time that gender discrimination in sports has been explicitly prohibited by legislation in the Maldives, he noted.