Minister of Sports Abdulla Rafiu has said that decentralising international competitions to the atolls will bring major benefits to local communities.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Beach Handball Tournament in Kulhudhuffushi City yesterday, the Minister said that the newly developed arena for the event is of world-class standard and will provide long-term benefits for the island.

He noted that holding tournaments across the Maldives will create opportunities for sports tourism, allowing supporters to watch top international players while attracting more visitors to the country. “Every tournament held in the Maldives will open more doors for the people. It will also bring economic benefits, strengthen infrastructure, and establish resources in the islands,” he said.

Rafiu described hosting the Commonwealth Beach Handball Tournament as a “great honour” for the Maldives, not only for the sporting community but for the entire nation. He added that the government’s policy is to host such events outside Malé to ensure development and opportunities are spread across the country.

The Commonwealth Beach Handball Tournament is being held in Kulhudhuffushi City from last Thursday to Monday, with teams from the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, and South Africa competing.