In a significant move to reform and advance the sports sector, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the First Amendment to Act No. 30/2015 (Maldives Sports Act), bringing major changes aimed at decentralisation, inclusivity, and institutional strengthening in Maldivian sports.
The ratification ceremony took place this morning at the President’s Office and was attended by several key officials, including the Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, the Attorney General, the Commissioner of Sports, and the Presidents of the Maldives Olympic Committee and the National Sports Council. Prominent figures from the nation’s sporting community, both past and present, were also in attendance.
The newly ratified amendment introduces a series of reforms intended to transform the governance and development of sports across the country. Among the major provisions are:
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Decentralisation of sports development: Local atoll and island authorities will now play a more active role in promoting and managing sports within their communities.
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Formation of regional sports associations: New associations for each sport will be established in regions nationwide, accompanied by regional tournaments to nurture talent and expand competitive opportunities.
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Creation of a dedicated Sports Fund: A specialised fund has been set up to ensure financial support for the sector’s growth and long-term sustainability.
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Recognition of the Maldives Paralympic Committee: The Committee is now acknowledged as an independent legal entity, with the same status and authority as the Maldives Olympic Committee.
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Establishment of divisions under the Maldives Paralympic Committee: Sports associations will now include dedicated divisions to promote inclusivity and participation for people with disabilities.
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Creation of the Maldives National Anti-Doping Agency: A new independent body has been formed to oversee anti-doping efforts and maintain integrity and fairness in sports.
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Introduction of a sports arbitration system: A legal mechanism will be established to protect athletes’ rights and resolve sports-related disputes.
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Systematic development of school sports: New ‘Inter-Scholastic’ associations and clubs will be introduced to organise and support school-level sporting activities under the law.
In addition to these major changes, the amendment also includes several other measures to reinforce the institutional framework and ensure the sustainable development of the Maldivian sports sector.
Addressing the media during the ceremony, President Dr Muizzu elaborated on the aims of the Amendment and highlighted the positive impact it is expected to have on communities and athletes throughout the nation.
The Amendment was passed by the People’s Majlis during the 26th sitting of its first session of the 2025 parliamentary term, held on Monday, May 5, 2025. It has now been published in the Government Gazette and has come into legal effect.