In a landmark move aimed at overhauling the nation’s sports landscape, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has officially ratified a series of transformative amendments to the Maldives Sports Act. The revised legislation introduces decentralised governance, enhanced financial infrastructure, and greater protections for athletes — signalling a bold step forward in the country’s athletic and institutional development.
The ratification ceremony, held at the President’s Office, was attended by top government and sports officials, including Attorney General Ahmed Usham, Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu, the Commissioner of Sports, and heads of national sporting bodies. Notably, the event marked President Muizzu’s first live ratification in the presence of media since taking office.
Originally enacted in 2015, the Sports Act has now been significantly expanded to decentralise authority and give island and atoll-level institutions a more active role in fostering local talent. The law mandates the creation of regional sports associations dedicated to individual disciplines, offering structured pathways for athletes and improving grassroots engagement.
Minister Abdulla Rafiu, speaking at the event, highlighted that these reforms stem from a long-term strategic vision developed over the past 20 years. “The decentralisation efforts and regional associations will ensure every corner of the country has the opportunity to participate in, and benefit from, organised sports,” he said.
One of the most pivotal elements of the reform is the introduction of the National Sports Fund — a financial mechanism designed to ensure sustainable support for athletes, infrastructure development, and sports-related research. The fund will be managed by a seven-member board appointed by the Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, under a governance framework focused on transparency and long-term impact.
The government expects the fund to drive elite athletic performance while also stabilising the broader sports sector financially, making funding more accessible and targeted.
The amendments also mark a turning point in the country’s approach to inclusivity and ethical standards. For the first time, the Maldives Paralympic Committee is granted independent and equal status alongside the Maldives Olympic Committee. All national sports associations will now be required to create specific divisions under the Paralympic framework to ensure equal participation opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Further, the Maldives National Anti-Doping Agency will now function as an autonomous regulatory body tasked with enforcing integrity measures across professional and amateur sports. The law also introduces a dedicated arbitration system to protect athlete rights and provide formal legal channels for dispute resolution.
Beyond sports governance, the amendment places athletic development at the heart of broader national goals. From addressing social inequality and improving public health to reducing poverty, the government views sports as a critical tool in shaping the Maldives’ social fabric.
The legislative process began with the bill’s submission to parliament on 26 November 2024 by Dhidhdhoo MP Abdul Latheef Mohamed. It was passed on 5 May 2025 during the 26th sitting of the session, following consultations with sector experts and public forums.
President Muizzu described the reforms as a vital part of his administration’s vision to empower youth and elevate national pride through sports. “These changes are not only about winning medals — they are about inclusion, opportunity, and building a healthier, more connected society,” he said following the ratification.
With the amendments now published in the Government Gazette and legally in effect, the Maldives enters a new chapter in its sporting journey — one marked by decentralisation, equity, and an ambitious drive for excellence.
