President Urges Maldivians to Embrace Sports as Lifelong Pursuit

President 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 marking the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace today, the President said the occasion highlights the vital role of sports in promoting physical well-being, as well as peace, unity and development at both national and international levels. He noted that sports transcend boundaries.

“The International Day of Sport for Development and Peace reinforces a simple yet profound truth, that sports transcend boundaries,” he said in a post on X.

The President added that sports can play a key role in addressing societal challenges such as drug abuse, corruption and violent extremism. He said participation in sports helps instil discipline, resilience, teamwork and respect among young people, enabling them to lead healthy and purposeful lives while contributing to national development.

He also highlighted progress made in the country’s sports sector, including strengthening the Maldives Sports Act, establishing the Sports Development Fund and recognising achievements through the Maldives Sports Awards.

The President further noted government initiatives aimed at developing the sporting community, including expanding sports infrastructure, introducing the Arutha International Scholarship and increasing salaries for national athletes without gender discrimination.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the sports sector, expressing hope that sport can be used to build a healthier, more united nation and contribute to long-term peace and development.