Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has emphasised the importance of teaching children with the values of Olympism early on to bolster sports participation in the Maldives.
Speaking at the Maldives Olympic Committee's annual general meeting held at Meerumaa, Minister Rafiu underscored the sincerity behind efforts to promote sports, stressing their noble intent. He highlighted the upcoming National Sports Veterans Ambassadors register, honoring the stalwarts of Maldivian sports.
Additionally, Minister Rafiu advocated for the engagement of every institution in fostering sports across the Maldives, emphasising the significance of innovative approaches. He cautioned against singular pursuits, asserting that collective endeavors are paramount for tangible impact. Stressing the role of sports in fostering joy, cultivating positive habits, and enhancing societal esteem, he emphasised the holistic benefits it offers.
Furthermore, Minister Rafiu expressed optimism about the Maldives' potential to host the Indian Ocean Island Games (IOIG) and South Asian Games within the next decade, aiming for podium success at the 2030 Asian Games. The aspirations, he noted, are integral parts of the long-term sporting strategy, necessitating concerted efforts from all sports associations and institutions for realisation.