Maldives Unveils Long-Term Sports Development Plan

The Maldives has finalized a comprehensive long-term plan for the development of sports. The first draft of the 20-year master plan was completed in February, and it was officially presented yesterday at a special ceremony held at STELCO’s seminar hall. The presentation was delivered by two American experts, Steve Roche and Matthew J. Robinson, who have been working on the project.

The plan divides the Maldives into three main regions—South, Central, and North—for implementation. Spanning four phases, the plan aims to elevate Maldivian sports to the highest international levels. The primary goal is to secure podium finishes or medals at the 2030 and 2034 Asian Games, as well as the 2036 and 2040 Olympic Games.

“This will be the foundation for sustainable success for Maldives to compete at the highest international level,” said Minister Abdullah Rafiu during the ceremony.

Key components of the plan include developing coaches from the school environment, organizing major sporting events in the Maldives, and producing world-class athletes. Other initiatives outlined in the plan are the creation of a master sports calendar, empowerment of sports associations, training of coaches and sports managers, management of school sports activities, and hosting international sports tournaments in the Maldives.