Male, Maldives: The 7th Carrom World Cup is underway at the Barceló Nasandhura Hotel in Malé, marking the Maldives’ return as host after 11 years, having last welcomed the global event in 2014 at Sun Island Resort.
This year’s tournament, held from February 2–6, brings together 17 nations and more than 150 players, underscoring the sport’s growing international presence.
A solemn moment defined the opening ceremony, where a moment of silence was observed to honor the victims of Cyclone Ditwah, which has caused catastrophic loss of life and severe destruction in Sri Lanka.
Led by International Carrom Federation (ICF) President Josef Meyer and attended by Maldives Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu, key ICF officials, government representatives, and all athletes and delegates, the gesture reflected the unity and compassion shared within the global carrom community.
This year, Sri Lanka is represented by 16 players and two officials, competing while their nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the devastating cyclone.
Sri Lankan authorities have estimated that rebuilding homes, infrastructure, and industries will require approximately USD 7 billion, as Cyclone Ditwah has already claimed at least 465 lives, with 366 more people still unaccounted for following extensive flooding and mudslides triggered by record-breaking rainfall across the island.
Amid the tragedy, expressions of solidarity have poured in from the Maldives. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake publicly thanked the Maldivian people and President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for their heartfelt support. In a message shared on X, President Dissanayake stated that the generosity shown by the Maldives brought “great joy” to the Sri Lankan people and reflected the strong bond between the two nations.
The Maldivian Government has pledged USD 50,000 in aid, along with 25,000 cases of canned fish, equivalent to 1.2 million cans.
The financial contribution was formally handed over to the Sri Lankan government yesterday, while the shipment of canned fish departed Malé on Tuesday aboard a Maldives State Shipping (MSS) vessel.
In addition, a national telethon organized by the Public Service Media (PSM) in collaboration with local media outlets raised USD 800,352 (MVR 12.3 million), which has been handed over to the Maldivian Foreign Ministry for transfer to Sri Lanka. Several major Maldivian companies have also donated significant funds through the Sri Lankan Embassy in Malé, and private organizations continue to lead further fundraising initiatives.
The opening ceremony of the Carrom World Cup, framed by both sporting excitement and humanitarian solidarity, highlighted the spirit of unity that defines international sport.
As the tournament continues, athletes and officials remain mindful of the broader regional impact of Cyclone Ditwah, standing with the people of Sri Lanka during a time of profound loss.
