In a move that has caught the attention of both citizens and industry leaders, the Maldivian government has announced a new nationwide initiative aimed at promoting responsible online gaming. The program, officially titled “Safe Play Maldives,” was unveiled at a press conference held yesterday in Malé.
The initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate the growing digital gaming and online casino sector while safeguarding users—especially young adults—from gambling addiction and financial harm.
“Online entertainment is evolving, and so must our regulations,” said Minister of Youth and Sports . “We are not only embracing technology but also making sure it does not negatively impact our people.”
Key Measures in the Initiative
The Safe Play Maldives program includes:
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Age verification enforcement across licensed platforms
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Mandatory warnings and play-time limit options
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Public awareness campaigns through schools and social media
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Collaboration with telecom providers to monitor illegal sites
The initiative is expected to be fully implemented by the end of Q3 2025.
Public and Industry Response
Initial reactions from the public have been largely positive. Local business owner , who runs a gaming café in Hulhumalé, stated, “This is a step in the right direction. We need structure, not bans.”
Online platforms that operate legally in the region, including licensed offshore casinos, are also expected to adjust their operations to align with these new regulations.
Rising Interest in Tech-Driven Policy
This move comes amid a noticeable increase in public interest around digital regulations, with “Maldives news” searches peaking in recent months due to topics involving AI, crypto, and online security.
Analysts predict that the Maldives could become a model in the region for balanced, tech-savvy governance if this strategy proves successful.
As the Maldives balances innovation with responsibility, initiatives like Safe Play Maldives are set to define the future of digital entertainment in the country. Stay tuned to Maldives Daily News for the latest updates on this and other Maldives news.