Male' Maldives (August 15): Maldives' first FIFA referee, Malla Lahthuhthu, has passed away at the age of 76 after a prolonged illness.
According to a family member, Malla was in the ICU before his passing, having battled a long-term illness. He had traveled to abroad for medical treatment in recent months.
Malla, who dedicated over half a century to the sports sector in Maldives, earned his first FIFA Badge in the 1990s. He served as a referee from 1969 to 1995, during which he was awarded the FIFA Badge and officiated from 1990 to 1993.
Following his career as a referee, Malla transitioned to becoming a referee instructor, playing a crucial role in developing key referees in Maldives' history. Under his guidance, notable referees such as Ali Saleem, Ahmed Abeer, and Ahmed Ameez emerged.
Malla received numerous accolades for his contributions, including the Sports Service Award in 1990, the FAM Presidential Award in 2018, the Sports Service Special Recognition Award in 2022, a Recognition Award from National Services in 2023, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the most recent Maldives Sports Awards.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizz and prominent figures from the sports sector are mourning the loss of the legend, with many in the sports industry recognizing and remembering Malla's significant contributions.
Malla's contributions extended beyond sports, earning praise in other sectors as well. He served in various capacities at the Ministry of Construction and Public Works and the People's Majilis, with both roles spanning nearly two decades.
