The Badminton Association of Maldives (BAM) has formally approved an ambitious annual budget of USD 674,448 at its Annual General Meeting held on 25 March.
The meeting, the first since the association regained its legal status after a two-year hiatus, marked a pivotal moment for the badminton community. The newly elected executive committee presented its financial and developmental plans to member clubs, emphasising a renewed commitment to the sport's development, contingent on securing expected funding from the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation and sponsors.
BAM President Ishfan Mohamed outlined an ambitious activity calendar for the year, headlined by the "Maldives Badminton" age group tournament, which is planned to be expanded across various atolls.
Ishfan assured that the host of activities and tournaments planned for the year would be held with an adequate budget and support.
Addressing long-standing concerns within the badminton family, the association has prioritised overcoming resource constraints. A key developmental project announced involves the construction of additional courts to complement the existing badminton hall, aiming to significantly improve training infrastructure.
The meeting also served as a platform for transparency, with the executive committee presenting and gaining approval for the 2025 Annual Report, Expenditure Report, and the year's audit report. Additionally, updates on the recent changes to the Sports Act and Rules of Procedure were shared with the members.
The approved budget and activity calendar will directly support Maldives' participation on the international stage. The World Badminton Federation (BWF) has granted the nation slots in six international tournaments this year.
The national team is first set to compete at the South Asian Regional Junior Championship in Pakistan this April, with preparations already underway. Maldivian athletes are also slated to compete in the prestigious 20th Asian Games, signaling a strong return to competitive badminton.