His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has urged every Maldivian to embrace sports not merely as an activity, but as a lifelong pursuit of excellence, peace, and harmony.
In a message issued on the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, the President highlighted that the occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role sports play in fostering physical well-being and promoting peace, unity, and development at both national and international levels. He underscored that sports transcend boundaries.
The President further noted that sports are a powerful force in addressing societal challenges such as drug abuse, corruption, and violent extremism. He emphasised its role in instilling discipline, resilience, teamwork, and respect among young people, empowering them to lead healthy, purposeful lives while contributing positively to national development.
The President also highlighted the progress achieved by the Maldives in advancing the sports sector, including strengthening the Maldives Sports Act, establishing the Sports Development Fund, and the pivotal role of the Maldives Sports Awards, which recognise excellence, dedication, and perseverance while fostering a culture of aspiration and achievement.
Further Government initiatives to strengthen the sporting community include the expansion of sports infrastructure, the Arutha International Scholarship, and increased salaries for national athletes without gender discrimination.
In conclusion, the President reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering support for the growth of the sports sector, expressing a collective aspiration to harness the transformative power of sport to build a healthier, more united, and vibrant nation, and to drive the country towards greater achievements and enduring peace.
The President also reiterated these sentiments in a post on his official X account.