The Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) has launched the Inmates Futsal Tournament 2025 at Maafushi Prison, aimed at promoting physical wellbeing and supporting the rehabilitation of undertrial detainees.

The tournament was officially inaugurated by Prosecutor General Justice (Retd) Uz Abbas Shareef, with the presence of senior officials including Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan, Commissioner of Prisons Hassan Zareer, and Deputy Commissioner Ibrahim Mohamed Didi. 

According to MCS, the primary objective of the tournament is to encourage inmates to adopt healthier lifestyles and utilise their time in a productive and fulfilling manner. Authorities believe that regular participation in physical activities such as sports can positively influence inmate behaviour and enhance motivation for reform.

The tournament is being held in a league format, featuring six teams, each comprising 14 players and five officials. A total of 114 inmates, including foreign nationals, are participating. The top two teams from the league stages will advance to the final match.

At the opening ceremony, Minister Ihusaan launched a special rehabilitation-themed song and outlined the Government’s commitment to rehabilitation-focused initiatives within the prison system. He emphasised the importance of such programmes in fostering personal responsibility and strengthening inmates’ ties with their families and communities.

Commissioner Zareer noted that nearly 80 per cent of the current prison population is over the age of 35 and highlighted the need for effective rehabilitation strategies to support their reintegration. He described the MCS's efforts as part of a broader national mission to enable inmates to return to society as contributing members.