MACL to construct sports complex in Rasdhoo amidst mandate concerns

The Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation has signed an agreement with Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) for the construction of a multi-sports complex in A.A. Rasdhoo.

This decision has drawn criticism due to the government's tendency to award projects to state-owned companies irrespective of their primary mandates.

The agreement was formalized with the signatures of MACL Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef and Sports Minister Ibrahim Rafiu.

This project aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's presidential pledge to establish fitness and recreation centers in all Maldivian islands by next year. The Rasdhoo Sports Complex is specifically part of a broader agreement between the Ministry of Sports and MACL to develop fitness and recreation centers in 63 islands across the Maldives.

The planned sports complex will feature an indoor gym, a dedicated women's exercise room, a hall for board games and various sports, and a meeting room.

The government has faced criticism for awarding numerous projects to government-owned companies without considering their foundational purposes. Recent examples include Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC), initially established for social housing projects, being tasked with building school buildings at high costs. Similarly, the Road Development Corporation (RDC), mandated for road construction, has been assigned hospital construction projects.