The construction of an international standard multi-story futsal complex, a multi-story netball complex and a surfing stadium will begin this year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced Thursday.
In his Presidential Address to inaugurate the Parliament for the year, President Dr Muizzu outlined his Administration’s plans for sports infrastructure for 2025.
In addition to the three projects which are part of his presidential pledges, he also announced that the drift stadium in Hulhumale’ will be kicked-off during the year.
In February last year, the land for the construction of the futsal and netball complex was handed over to the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation. The two complexes will revolutionise the country's sports infrastructure, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu had said.
The netball complex will be built in Hulhumale Phase I, while the futsal complex will be located in Hulhumale' Phase II. Each complex will feature five stadiums and will offer a wide range of sports services.
According to the Ministry, the complexes will be developed to modern standards, providing services and facilities for athletes and spectators alike and will be accessible to individuals with special needs.
The government meanwhile, has also initiated the development of a world-class surfing and bodyboarding arena in Maldives.
Months after the government revoked the permission to use a separate area of Hulhumale’ for racing and drifting, the President in his address announced that the construction of a drifting stadium will start this year.
In his address, President Dr Muizzu said in addition to the obvious health benefits, investment in sports infrastructure will pave the way for the country’s athletes to make the nation proud, noting the qualification of a Maldivian athlete to the Olympic Games last year as an example.
With the success of last year's Surfing Asian Championships, both the Men’s and Women’s surfing team have qualified for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.
The government aims to elevate the country’s sports sector by investing in sports infrastructure to complement its plans to host major regional and international level tournaments in the island nation.