Ali Thameem
Maldivian badminton players have been granted clearance to compete in international tournaments until December 26, 2025, following a decision by the Badminton World Federation (BWF).
The decision by the BWF allows national players, including those selected for next month’s Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, to continue competing at the highest level while governance reforms are underway at the Badminton Association of Maldives (BAM).
According to a press release issued by the Maldives Olympic Committee this Friday, the exemption was granted after “encouraging progress on governance reforms within the Badminton Association of Maldives, including the drafting of a revised constitution and the scheduling of both an Extraordinary General Congress and an Electoral Congress.”
MOC President Mohamed Abdul Sattar was quoted in the release as saying:
“This decision by the Badminton World Federation is a significant step for our athletes, who have worked tirelessly to represent the Maldives with pride on the international stage. We are encouraged by the reforms underway within the Badminton Association of Maldives and remain committed to supporting them in strengthening governance structures that will secure long-term opportunities for our athletes.”
BAM was suspended by the BWF on 20 May 2025. At the time, the BWF stated the suspension was intended “to protect the autonomy of BAM” and added that it was “working with both the elected leadership, the sport authorities, and the Maldives Olympic Committee to get BAM included again as an active BWF member.”
Since then, a working group has been formed to pave the way for reforms. BAM’s previous executive term expired on 11 March 2024, and planned elections were halted following orders from both the Sports Commissioner and the Anti-Corruption Commission. The association is now preparing for a Congress in October to amend its Articles of Association, followed by a General Election in November.
The exemption granted today ensures that Maldivian shuttlers face no restrictions in competing at international level events during this interim period. However, the long-term outcome will depend on the successful completion of BAM’s governance reforms and its reinstatement as a full BWF member.
