Pioneer of Maldivian football refereeing, Malla Lhathuhthu passes away
Malla Lhathuhthu, a celebrated figure in Maldivian sports, particularly football, passed away this afternoon at the age of 76.
He died while receiving treatment in the intensive care unit of a hospital in Trivandrum, India.
Though his death has been confirmed, the exact cause remains unknown.
Malla Lhathuhthu was renowned as the best football referee in the Maldives, having earned the country's first FIFA referee’s badge.
His dedication to sports spanned over 52 years, during which he made significant contributions to the development of football and other sports in the nation.
His passing has sparked an outpouring of condolences, with President Dr. Muizzu describing Malla's death as a "great loss" to the Maldivian sports industry.
Malla's accomplishments in the sports arena earned him numerous awards, including the National Encouragement Award, the National Honorary Award, the Long Service to the State Award, and the Sports Lifetime Achievement Award.
President Dr Muizzu, in his condolence message, expressed deep sympathy for Malla’s family, acknowledging his lifelong commitment to national service.
May Allah keep the late Malla in His abundant mercy and forgiveness, and in the eternal blessings of Paradise. Amen,
the President wrote on X.
In addition to his sports career, Malla served in various senior government positions.
He began his public service journey at the age of 16, joining the military in 1964.
Over the years, he held positions such as English Secretary to the Registration Division of Home Affairs, Secretary to the Sports Section, and worked for over a decade at the Ministry of Construction.
Malla retired in 2010 after more than 43 years of service to the Maldivian state.
Malla’s refereeing career, which spanned from 1969 to 1995, saw him officiating both national and international matches.
He became a FIFA-certified referee in 1990 and held the badge until 1993.
Among his most notable achievements was officiating the country’s first national tournament held outside of Malé, in Hithadhoo, Addu City, in 1970.
He also refereed at the Asian Club Championships and SAFF Games.
Beyond his time on the field, Malla contributed to the growth of future referees, mentoring several who have now established themselves, including Ali Saleem, Ahmed Abeer Ismail, and Ahmed Ameez.
The nation mourns the loss of Malla Lhathuhthu, a true pioneer and devoted public servant whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
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