The Maldives Olympic Committee (MOC) unanimously approved a budget of MVR 38 million for 2024 at its annual general assembly on Saturday. According to the committee, it is expected to receive MVR 28 million from the government through the Ministry of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation.
The budget includes provisions for the Maldives contingent to travel to Pakistan to compete in the South Asian Games, although a decision to hold the games is still pending. A Maldivian contingent of 170 athletes will also travel to Thailand to compete in the Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, according to MOC.
For the first time, the budget also includes allocations for hosting the National Games, demonstrating the committee’s commitment to promoting sports at the national level. Approximately 93 percent of the budget will be spent on sports-related expenses, according to the committee.
In an effort to foster youth sportsmanship, the committee decided to provide financial assistance to three associations to conduct youth development programmes in the atolls this year. This initiative is part of the committee’s broader strategy to promote sports development across the country.
In addition to the South Asian Games and the Asian Indoor Martial Arts Games, the Maldives will also compete in the Olympic Games in Paris, France, later this year. The budget has earmarked funds for the Maldivian contingent’s travel and participation in these games.