President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to recognise the achievements of young people involved in esports and work to create greater opportunities for advancement in the sector.
The President made the remarks during the fourth episode of the Rayithunge Adu series, a programme that provides opportunities for members of the public who wish to meet the President and discuss their concerns across a wide range of areas. During the episode, a young esports player shared his views on issues affecting the sector.
Esports is an area in which many young people are actively involved. The young man raised concerns over the lack of a sports award for esports and noted that there is currently no system in the Maldives to recognise the achievements of young people who have excelled in the field.
He therefore called for greater importance to be given to esports and asked the President to establish ways for the sector to receive more attention than it currently does.
“We are not receiving proper recognition. I had previously asked why there was no esports award in the government’s sports awards. They said there was no such recognised in the Maldives. I want that to change,” the young man told the President.
In response, President Muizzu said esports has now become an area in which many young people are involved. He said greater progress and attention must therefore be given to the sector.
“It is something that needs to be done. There are indeed many young people involved in this field,” the President said.
The young man who met with the President also noted that the current administration is one that works closely with young people. He expressed his appreciation for the government’s efforts to maintain close engagement with the youth, noting that avenues have been made available for young people to raise their concerns directly with the President. He also said he believed that young people have greater opportunities under the current administration.
The development of esports, which continues to grow rapidly, is among the government’s priorities. In his Presidential Address this year, President Muizzu announced that work on an esports centre and arcade, as well as an activities complex specifically designed for children.
Referring to the project, the President said the government is currently working to secure a team to carry out the work at the site.
The government has already commenced work on a number of projects related to sports. The administration has said that the sports facilities being established across the country will strengthen social connections among individuals and contribute to better mental wellbeing. Promoting a healthy and active population is part of the government’s long-term strategic plan, while building a physically and mentally healthy nation remains one of its key objectives.