The Parliament of the Maldives has approved the appointment of Ahmed Mahloof as the country’s new Ambassador to Japan, following a unanimous vote during Wednesday's  sitting.

All 60 parliamentarians present voted in favour of Mahloof’s appointment, with none opposing. His nomination was submitted to the People’s Majlis by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 26 November, after which the matter was reviewed by the Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs. The committee’s report recommending approval was endorsed during today’s session.

The post of Ambassador to Japan has been vacant since the passing of former ambassador Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI) Hassan Sobir on 28 July 2025.

Mahloof, who joined the ruling PNC on 14 November, previously served as Minister of Youth and Sports during the former administration. He was also elected to the 17th and 18th People’s Majlis before leaving the MDP in September 2019.