The Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu has made a strong commitment to reinvigorate the spirit of football across the Maldives.
Emphasising the importance of the sport to the nation, in a recent exclusive interview with PSM News, Minister Rafiu stated that the government would provide unwavering support to the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) in its efforts to restore football’s prominence in the country.
With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, the Minister laid out a comprehensive strategy aimed at promoting football and nurturing new talent through well-organised tournaments.
"Football is not just a game; it is a passion that unites our communities and inspires our youth. The Ministry of Sports sees immense value in reintroducing football to every corner of the nation. We aim to work closely with the FAM and regional entities to ensure that the excitement surrounding the sport is reignited,” he explained.
Minister Rafiu emphasised the ministry's role as a facilitator rather than an overseer, making it clear that the FAM will retain autonomy in organising and conducting tournaments.
"While we will offer all necessary assistance, I want to reiterate that we will never interfere in the FAM's operations. Our primary goal is to promote sports, and we are committed to doing everything possible to support the tournaments they organise," he said.
The Minister has outlined a plan that includes identifying and nurturing talented players through nationwide competitions.
"The tournaments we have conducted in various regions have already showcased promising new players. Our aim is to discover the best talent across the country and create a structured network that prioritises their development. This is one of our core policies."