The Parliament Member for Dhidhdhoo Constituency, Abdul Latheef Mohamed, has linked the persistence of key social issues in the Maldives to the lack of consistent support for sports by previous governments.

Speaking on MMTV's Bodu Khabaru programme, Latheef said limited attention to sports, especially youth-oriented initiatives, has contributed to setbacks in youth development and wider societal challenges. He noted that past experience highlights the consequences of overlooking the role of sports in community development.

According to Latheef, the Government is now taking a more inclusive approach, pointing to the recent ratification of the Sports Act as an example of efforts to address underlying issues affecting youth. He stated that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's policies aim to expand sports development across the country, rather than concentrating it in a few areas.

Key reforms under the recent ratification of the Sports Act include decentralisation of sports development, the creation of a national sports fund, and the formation of regional sports associations. The Act also formally recognises the Maldives Paralympic Committee as an independent legal entity, granting it the same status and authority as the Maldives Olympic Committee.

Increased access to structured sports programmes, he noted, could offer young people more positive and meaningful ways to spend their time, helping reduce unproductive behaviours and contributing to overall social progress.

Highlighting the Government's ongoing investments in sports infrastructure, Latheef cited the development of courts, stadiums, and youth centres. He also noted that the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation is deploying coaches to various islands to support athletes and nurture local talent.