President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Monday ratified the First Amendment to the Maldives Sports Act, introducing comprehensive reforms aimed at modernising the governance of sports and expanding access to sporting opportunities across the country.

The amendment, ratified during a ceremony at the President’s Office, came into legal effect following its publication in the Government Gazette. It was passed by Parliament during its 26th sitting of the first session on May 5, 2025.

Key provisions of the amendment include the decentralisation of sports development, empowering atoll and island-level authorities to take a leading role in promoting sports at the community level. The legislation also mandates the formation of regional sports associations for each sport, and the introduction of regional tournaments to foster local talent and competition nationwide.

A dedicated Sports Fund will be established to provide sustained financial support to sports institutions and development initiatives. In a significant move towards inclusivity, the Maldives Paralympic Committee has been formally recognised as an independent legal entity, with equal status to the Maldives Olympic Committee. Furthermore, the Act mandates the creation of special divisions under the Paralympic Committee within existing sports associations to support the participation of persons with disabilities.

To uphold integrity and fairness in sport, the amendment also establishes the Maldives National Anti-Doping Agency, an independent legal body responsible for overseeing anti-doping efforts and ensuring compliance with international standards.

In addition, a sports arbitration system will be introduced to provide a legal framework for resolving sports-related disputes and safeguarding athletes’ rights. The amendment also supports the development of school sports by facilitating the creation of ‘Inter-Scholastic’ sports associations and clubs, ensuring youth access to structured sports activities.

At the ratification ceremony, attended by senior government officials and prominent members of the sports community, President Dr Muizzu underscored the importance of the reforms in building a more inclusive, professional, and decentralised sports system. He emphasised that the changes would deliver long-term social and economic benefits for communities across the Maldives.

Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, the Attorney General, the Commissioner of Sports, and Presidents of the Maldives Olympic Committee and National Sports Council were among the key dignitaries present at the event.