The Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness has instructed national sports associations to temporarily suspend sports activities during prayer times.

A circular issued by the Ministry states that arrangements must be made at all venues where sports activities take place to facilitate prayers. The directive states that when the call to prayer is made, all sporting activities should be paused for 20 minutes to allow participants to perform their prayers.

The Ministry noted that the measure applies to all sporting activities conducted across the Maldives, including those organised by clubs, academies and private parties. It further stated that the policy has been adopted as part of the Government's wider approach and must therefore be implemented in all activities carried out under the supervision of national sports associations.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had first announced the decision during a press conference held at the President's Office earlier this month.

The President also said that modern prayer facilities and ablution areas would be established at Government sports facilities. He observed that some of the country's most frequently used sports venues, including the Social Centre and Maafannu Stadium, currently lack adequate facilities for worship.

He further announced that all future Government sports infrastructure projects would incorporate facilities for prayers and ablution.

President Dr Muizzu stated that necessary arrangements would be put in place to ensure that all sporting activities are suspended for a period sufficient to allow prayers to be performed once the call to prayer is made.