Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Ahmed Mahloof sat down with Wellness Industry professionals and other stakeholders to discuss “Mission Fit Maldives” on Wednesday.

The meeting revolved around discussions regarding the movement hashtagged Mission Fit Maldives and to update fitness experts on its main objective.

Some of the concerns raised by the fitness industry were also shared with the minister.

Taking to Twitter following the meeting, Mahloof wrote that their input is “extremely crucial” to achieve the “collective goal of a fitter nation”.

While discussions have been held to kick start “Mission Fit Maldives”, Bollywood superstar as well as fitness idol Suniel Shetty was appointed as the Ambassador of Wellness in the Maldives, which Indian actor graciously accepted earlier this week.

The movement is part of the ministry’s efforts to promote wellness and a healthier lifestyle among Maldivians and is mirrored by the “Mission Fit India”, led by Shetty.

Taking to Twitter, Shetty wrote that healthy citizens “make strong countries” and Maldives is among the “most beautiful” places. He expressed keenness to work with the Maldivian government to achieve a fitter, healthier Maldives.

Highlighting that promoting a healthier lifestyle is one of the “most important” pledges of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Mahloof earlier stated that the a programme will be initiated to appoint a sports counselor for each island and building outdoor gyms across 61 islands with the assistance of the government of India.

Mahloof expressed his hope that Shetty and team’s participation in the movement will play a part in its success. However, Shetty's appointment as wellness' ambassador had sparked backlash on social media.