Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has said that sports competitions held across the country play a vital role in strengthening the Maldives’ social fabric.
He made the remarks while officiating the final match of the men’s division of the Beefaanu 2026 volleyball tournament, held in Fiyoari, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
The Vice President was speaking at the final match of the tournament, which was jointly organised by the Fiyoari Island Council and the Fiyoari Association for Community Empowerment (FACE).
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said such tournaments bring multiple benefits to communities.
“Such tournaments achieve a lot. There are many social benefits, and these competitions also provide us with many opportunities,” he said.
Referring specifically to the Beefaanu 2026 tournament, the Vice President said sporting events help address minor disagreements and dissatisfaction that may arise within island communities.
“Tournaments like Beefaanu 2026 achieve a lot for us socially. The unity, spirit and friendship built during preparations help keep disagreements between individuals away,” he said, citing sports as a means of strengthening community bonds.
The Vice President also noted that sports improve relationships between individuals, adding that teams from islands near Fiyoari also participated in the tournament.
The final match was played between Rathafandhoo Sports Club and Dhadimagu Sports and Recreation Club (DSRC), a team from Fuvahmulah City.
Ahead of the match, the Vice President was presented with a plaque by FACE in recognition of his support and cooperation with the association.
Dhadimagu Sports and Recreation Club emerged as the champion team of the Beefaanu 2026 volleyball tournament.
The Vice President presented medals and trophies to the winning team, along with awards for the highest points scorer, the most valuable player of the tournament, and the King of Beefaan.