Month: October 2024

The Coca-Cola Foundation and its partners have announced the export of a container of baled post-consumer Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic from Male, as part of the Sustainable Island Waste Management and Plastic Recycling Initiative.

Aligned with World Cleanup Day 2024, the event also included the handover of TCCF-funded infrastructure, such as pickups and balers, to the government-owned Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO).

This initiative, funded by The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF), is a joint effort between the Maldives Ocean Plastics Alliance (MOPA) and WAMCO, aimed at improving PET collection and addressing plastic waste in the Maldives.

The project will export baled PET to Malaysia and China for recycling. While PET bottles were exported in the past, baling the waste enhances storage and transportation efficiency, marking a significant improvement in the process.

The primary goal of the TCCF-funded Island PET Collection Project is to establish a nationwide plastic recycling solution by building the necessary infrastructure and systems.

Currently, most waste in the Maldives is either disposed of or incinerated on K. Thilafushi industrial island. This project represents a shift towards more sustainable waste management practices.

The initiative focuses on expanding PET collection systems beyond Greater Male’, improving collection efficiency across the country until local recycling capacity is developed.

MOPA President Ahmed Maumoon commented, “This project is a pivotal moment in the Maldives’ fight against plastic waste. By educating communities and partnering with national organizations like WAMCO, we are enhancing today’s waste management while laying the foundation for long-term environmental sustainability.”

In collaboration with WAMCO, MOPA has rolled out community education programs and ensured that the TCCF-funded infrastructure, such as compactors and pickups, is effectively utilized across Greater Male’ and other islands.

WAMCO Managing Director Mujthaba Jaleel stated, “This initiative is a critical step toward improving plastic waste management and advancing recycling efforts in the Maldives. By providing islands with the necessary tools and infrastructure to collect and process PET waste, we are not only addressing the current plastic pollution problem but also building a foundation for a more sustainable future.”

WAMCO plays a crucial role in overseeing PET waste collection operations, ensuring the efficient handling of baling and export processes.

Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, added, “Our commitment to this project extends beyond waste collection. By supporting MOPA and WAMCO, we aim to foster sustainability in the Maldives and contribute to the development of a circular economy

Niyama Private Islands Maldives has once again been recognized for its distinctiveness, exclusivity, and relaxed luxury, earning a spot as one of the ‘Best Resorts in the Indian Ocean’ at this year’s Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives, Niyama Private Islands offers a captivating and unique blend of luxury and adventure. Beyond its top-tier accommodations, dining, and spa experiences, the resort provides an otherworldly escape across its twin islands, Chill and Play. Guests can create their own extraordinary experiences, from treetop adventures and underwater parties to ocean thrills like Seabob rides, jetpacking, and surfing.

This award highlights Niyama’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences through personalized services and thoughtful touches that consistently surpass the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.

General Manager Hafidh Al Busaidy expressed the team’s gratitude, saying, “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from the esteemed readers of Condé Nast Traveler. It reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence and our commitment to offering uniquely crafted experiences to our guests. We thank the readers, our guests, partners, and the Niyama family for their unwavering support, and we promise to continue enhancing every stay, making each one even more memorable than the last.

The Maldivian government has introduced a bill seeking to amend the Tourism Act by eliminating the requirement for the President’s Office to approve the leasing of islands, land, and lagoons for tourism development.

The bill, presented by PNC MP Musthafa Hussein on behalf of the government, was read for the first time in Parliament on Monday, with a debate scheduled for Tuesday.

Currently, the Tourism Act requires approval from the President’s Office for allocating islands, land, and lagoons for tourism. This requirement was introduced through an amendment on July 10, 2016, under Article 5(r)(3).

The proposed amendment aims to remove this approval process, allowing allocations to proceed without the President’s Office’s involvement if the bill is passed.

Under the current law, the tourism ministry must publish a list of islands, land, and lagoons designated for tourism in coordination with the President’s Office, with any changes requiring presidential approval. The new amendment would instead mandate direct consultation with the president.

Furthermore, the bill proposes an increase in the green tax for tourists starting next year. The tax for guesthouses with fewer than 50 rooms would rise from $3 to $6 per day, while the tax for resorts, city hotels, and larger establishments would increase from $6 to $12 per day.

On Monday, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed an agreement with Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) for the development of a monorail system linking Malé and K. Funadhoo.

The monorail will serve as a crucial element of the Special Economic and Financial Service Zone initiative.

Originally announced in May by Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, the project will be funded by the UAE’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA).

The signing ceremony, held on Monday, was attended by Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, CEO and Managing Director of MACL, and Lu Wei, General Manager of BUCG, who signed on behalf of their respective organizations.

This monorail system will connect Hulhule airport island with Malé and Hulhumale, integrating with the Sinamale Bridge.

The development forms part of a larger Economic Zone Development Project, which includes the establishment of the West Side Commercial Hub and improved connectivity to the main airport.

As part of this initiative, the current seaplane terminal on Hulhule will be relocated to Funadhoo.

The project also includes plans for shopping centres, hotels, convention facilities, and entertainment venues.

President Mohamed Muizzu emphasized the significance of a connected public transport system, such as the monorail, in enhancing travel for passengers, customers, and employees throughout the region.

Dusit Thani Maldives is set to elevate its culinary offerings with the introduction of SALA, a new vegan restaurant featuring nutrient-dense, plant-based dishes crafted from premium, locally sourced ingredients, including produce from the resort’s own organic gardens.

SALA is a collaboration with Chef Celia Lam, co-leader of the Slow Food Community Bangkok and an instructor at The Food School, Thailand’s leading culinary academy associated with Dusit Hospitality Education. The restaurant will showcase a thoughtfully curated “plant-powered” menu, highlighting dishes such as Greek orzo salad, baked spiced pumpkin, and eggplant steak a la plancha, along with a variety of salads, soups, and mains.

Situated in a traditional Thai-style house with views of the turquoise waters of Baa Atoll, SALA embodies Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality. Its launch coincides with Dusit International’s Tree of Life sustainability initiative, which prioritizes environmental preservation, health, and well-being. By integrating organic, plant-based cuisine into its offerings, Dusit Thani Maldives reinforces its dedication to sustainability and wellness in the luxury travel sector.

SALA will open its doors on November 1, 2024. To celebrate the occasion, Chef Celia Lam will conduct exclusive masterclasses and interactive workshops from November 1-4, allowing guests to learn to prepare exceptional vegan dishes using fresh ingredients.

“This new organic restaurant emphasizes our commitment to promoting healthy, sustainable living while providing an outstanding dining experience,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives. “We are excited to have Chef Celia Lam on board, as her passion for sustainability aligns perfectly with our vision. We believe SALA will attract health-conscious travelers seeking a transformative dining experience.”

Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a serene escape that combines Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. Guests can partake in unique experiences, including interactions with vibrant marine life, world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, fine dining, luxurious villas, and a wide range of activities amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Maldives.

The Maldivian government has submitted a proposal to raise the taxes levied on passengers departing from Velana International Airport (VIA).

The amendments to the Airport Departure Tax Act will be presented to the parliament in its upcoming session starting Monday.

Key changes in the proposal include adjustments to the departure fees for various passenger categories:

• Foreign economy class passengers: fee increase from $30 to $50.
• No change for Maldivian economy class passengers.
• Business class passengers: fee increase from $60 to $120.
• First class passengers: fee increase from $90 to $240.
• Private jet passengers: fee increase from $120 to $480.

These changes are expected to take effect from December 2024.

The government anticipates that the tax increase will generate an additional MVR 1.6 billion in revenue. The primary goal is to enhance the country’s foreign reserves, as the collected taxes will be in U.S. dollars.

Milaidhoo Maldives has elevated its mixology experience through the introduction of the Chef’s Garden, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhance every cocktail. The private island resort’s mixologists now have direct access to a variety of herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables, allowing them to hand-pick the freshest ingredients for crafting and garnishing drinks. This farm-to-glass approach guarantees vibrant, fresh flavors, significantly improving the guest experience.

To celebrate the opening of the Chef’s Garden, the resort introduced the Garden Elixir, a signature cocktail created using Botanist Gin, known for its herbal and spice complexity, and freshly harvested garden herbs. The Garden Elixir offers a unique, aromatic experience, reflecting the essence of the Maldives.

The Chef’s Garden also serves as an interactive space for guests, offering them the opportunity to explore the garden, learn about local vegetation, and engage in cooking and cocktail-making classes led by chefs and mixologists. Guests can also enjoy private dining experiences in this serene setting.

Executive Chef Ken Gundu, who pioneered the Chef’s Garden, highlights the importance of growing local produce on the island to ensure fresh, sustainable dining. The initiative supports a healthier guest experience by using the freshest ingredients, reducing reliance on imported goods, and promoting sustainability.

Milaidhoo’s commitment to sustainability extends through this project, which helps reduce the resort’s carbon footprint by minimizing imported ingredients. This approach not only meets the resort’s food requirements but also showcases the island’s dedication to eco-conscious tourism. While Milaidhoo is renowned for its marine life, the Chef’s Garden initiative highlights the resort’s focus on sustainable luxury and culinary innovation, blending local agriculture with its hospitality offerings.

The Maldivian government is set to propose an amendment on Monday to increase the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) on tourists to 17% and double the green tax.

The amendments to the Tax Act will be presented in parliament on Monday.

The proposed changes include raising the TGST from 16% to 17%, effective June 2025.

Additionally, the green tax will be increased as follows:

• For guesthouses with fewer than 50 rooms: from $3 to $6 per night, per person.
• For resorts, city hotels, and tourist establishments with more than 50 rooms: from $6 to $12 per night, per person.

This increase in the green tax is planned to take effect from January 2025.

The government also intends to exempt children under the age of two, who are currently subject to the tax, from the green tax.

The purpose of these proposed tax increases is to enhance foreign exchange earnings and strengthen the Maldives’ foreign currency reserves.

The TGST was last raised from 8% to 16% in January 2023.

The Government of Maldives has made a notable advancement in marine conservation by issuing Regulation No. 2024/R-96, focused on improving whale shark interactions. This regulation, which is the seventh amendment to the Protected Species Regulation (2021/R-25), updates the existing Code of Conduct for the Protection and Conservation of Whale Sharks, initially introduced in 2009.

This new policy reinforces the Maldives’ dedication to marine life preservation by implementing strict guidelines that prioritize the safety of both tourists and whale sharks. Notable provisions include maintaining a minimum distance of three meters from the body and four meters from the tail of the whale sharks. It strictly prohibits any physical contact or holding onto the whale sharks while swimming alongside them. Interactions should be conducted calmly and quietly, avoiding any actions that could chase or block the whale sharks’ natural movements by staying to their sides.

Additionally, the regulation bans the feeding of whale sharks and restricts the use of flash photography, selfie sticks, or bright lights during encounters. Aerial photography guidelines require drones to be flown at least 30 meters above sea level and within the operator’s line of sight. A 250-meter contact zone around whale sharks allows no more than three vessels at a time, with a speed limit of five knots per hour, reducing to two knots within 50 meters of the whale shark. Emergency protocols are also outlined to ensure whale sharks remain undisturbed in their natural behaviors.

In case of encountering an injured or entangled whale shark, the regulation includes clear instructions, such as notifying the Environment Protection Agency and ensuring the whale shark’s safe release.

This regulation aims to enhance the experience for tourists engaging with whale sharks while also protecting the vital marine ecosystem that sustains these creatures. The Maldives continues to set a global example in marine conservation, ensuring that future generations can admire the beauty of these gentle giants.

Dusit Thani Maldives has been proudly featured in the prestigious November 2024 edition of Condé Nast Traveller as part of the renowned Readers’ Choice Awards.

Celebrated for its outstanding luxury, exceptional hospitality, and dedication to sustainability, Dusit Thani Maldives continues to exemplify world-class holiday experiences in the Maldives.

The Readers’ Choice Awards are among the most respected honors in the travel industry, where Condé Nast Traveller readers vote for the best in global travel. This recognition reinforces Dusit Thani Maldives as a destination that not only offers breathtaking beauty and luxury but also delivers meaningful and enriching experiences for its guests.

Jean-Louis Ripoche, General Manager of Dusit Thani Maldives, expressed his gratitude, stating that being featured in Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the team’s hard work and dedication. He highlighted their commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences and noted that this recognition from travelers around the world is extremely rewarding.

Situated in the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a serene retreat that seamlessly blends Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. The resort provides guests with exclusive experiences, from encounters with vibrant marine life to world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, gourmet dining, luxurious villas, and a range of activities amidst the Maldives’ stunning natural landscapes.