Mahloof: Working to establish resources, results to show in 5 years

Sports Minister Ahmed Mahloof, on Wednesday, remarked that the most prominent work being carried out by the government to further develop football in the Maldives was with respect to establishing the resources required for it – adding the result of these efforts will be seen approximately five years later.

Responding to a question by a parliamentarian at Wednesday’s parliamentary sitting – Minister Mahloof emphasized that the government allocated special priority to developing football in the Maldives.

He added that the most important work being carried out in line with the goal is the development of larger stadiums.  

“When this administration assumed office – playing football had ceased in islands. They were playing futsal in mini football stadiums,” he had said.

Minister Mahloof said that the result of resources being developed will be witnessed approximately five to six years later.

Speaking further, Minister Mahloof said that opposing teams scoring big against the national team is a matter that is not in his control. However, he noted that concerns surrounding the matter have been relayed to the President of the Football Association of Maldives (FAM) Bassam Ali.

He added falling in line with countries such as India, Nepal and Bangladesh with respect to football would be a difficult task in the future – citing they were countries with millions of people, able to invest millions to spend on football.

Minister Mahloof noted redevelopment of Galolhu National Stadium under a LOC project from India was proceeding at a fast pace. He said the redevelopment will be carried out after making necessary set-ups at Hulhumale’ Stadium, to use alternatively whilst the project is underway.