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Kayano’s Pact in Captivity

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Most of us have heard the name. Most of us have listened to his tunes. But what defines him? What makes him who he is? This is the tale of Kayano, a man who followed his dreams, an example for all of us.

“My story starts at the age of 17. I have always loved music. But back then I didn’t even know how to play the guitar. I had a friend, Mutti, he is still a good friend and my mentor, and he taught me how to play the guitar,” kayano began to tell us his story with enthusiasm.

The first song Kayano sang was named “Kaalhu”, and with that he laid his foundation. After hearing “Kaalhu”, his mentor and friend Mutti supported him and encouraged him to follow his dream. Since then he has continued to develop his music and his skills.

However fate wasn’t too kind to our young artist. “I was becoming better at music, when my life took a sudden turn. Things changed, and I got involved with drugs. Slowly I was pulled into it. I lost myself in the addiction and my music silently slipped away. I couldn’t play, because I didn’t have time for it. I was too much into drugs,” Kayano said, with regret in his eyes.

When Kayano realised how much his life was being controlled by drugs, he sought shelter at a rehabilitation centre. His passion for music and his desire to be free from the grasps of the opiates, helped him to become better. “I played and practiced at the rehab. I even made a lot of songs during my time at the rehab. For example Kudakujja, that is the song that put me out on the spot light. It became a famous song,” Kayano said.

While Kayano was later incarcerated, the time he spent behind bars was also spent on developing his skills as he composed more and more songs. “The best thing about prison was that it opened my eyes. There I met Shaz and Muaa. They promised me that once I got free they would help me release my songs in an album,” Kayano said.

It was a pact made in captivity, but it was the completion of a foundation. Shaz and Muaa, promised Kayano that once he was free from drugs and from prison, they would help him release an album. After he once again became part of the community, his friends protected him  from drugs.

“All my friends and peeps that lived in the neighbourhood helped me to stay away from drugs. Then I met Faube. Back then Faube wasn’t very good with the guitar either. But he came to me with the idea of a band. He asked me to create a band so that it would be easier for me to stay away from drugs. I agreed,” Kayano said.

That was the birth of “Traphic Jam”, the band Kayano and Faube created. The band was initially called “Traphic Light”, however it was renamed. The band plays a unique type of music that mixes two genres, rock and grunge music. Initially a fan of grunge music Kayano found Faube to be more of an extreme heavy metal lover. However the two types of music merged to form the bands unique music with its transitioning vocal melodies.

Despite line up changes over time, the two founding members, Kayano and Faube have always been dedicated to the band, making it one of the most successful Maldivian rock bands. The current lineup has Kayano as the lead vocalist, Faube as the lead guitarist, Rimah as the drummer, and Shaan as the bassist. With many successful performances the band has gained popularity among Maldivians as well as foreigners. “Live Help – 2006”, “Sound of a Nation – 2007”, and the “Breakout Festival Maldives” are among some of the famous live events in which the band has performed. The band has also been reputed for their exclusive support for local originals.

Traphic Jam has released two albums, “Dhirithibbas” and “Thy Ehves Baareh Oi Bayeh Noon”. They also released two singles, “Party System” and “Ma OK OK”. Traphic Jam has also performed in United Kingdom, and New Delhi, India, with successful shows. The band has now performed at over a hundred shows, and has captured the hearts of Maldivian youth.

They are also planning to release another album and are preparing for an unplugged show as well. Despite the busy schedule of all of the band members they all have time for the band. “We all have other jobs as well. After the jobs we still have time for the band,” Kayano said.

With its crystal clear message, calling out to the youth of this nation and to those in power, to “stop violence among ourselves”, Kayano and his band is doing a remarkable job. Working towards peace, Kayano reminds us of the pact in captivity that has transformed and healed a man to become a better person. Kayano is an example to all of us who have forgotten what it is like to be humble, to be kind, and to actually care.

We at Maldives Promotion House want you to know, that we are proud of your work, and that we are proud to have you as fellow Maldivians among ourselves. Kayano and Traphic Jam, keep up the good work. The following video is one of the famous video songs of Traphic Jam, “Fasdheefa Dhaathee”.

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Finolhu replants 1,200 coral colonies to strengthen house reef

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Finolhu, a Seaside Collection Resort, has completed a four-day coral transplantation programme, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to marine conservation. Led by the resort’s marine biologist, Ivanna Tobar, the initiative involved the replanting of approximately 1,200 coral colonies from Finolhu’s nurseries to its house reef, strengthening one of the Maldives’ most critical marine ecosystems.

The programme was notable for its collaborative approach, bringing together four marine biologists from neighbouring resorts—JOALI BEING, Westin, Coco Palm, and Dusit Thani. Visiting experts Philippa Darby-shire Jenkins (JOALI BEING), Rosalie Bailie (Coco Palm), Harry Longin (Westin), and Louna Marchand (Dusit Thani) took part in hands-on transplantation dives, equipment preparation, and reef health management activities, including the removal of invasive pincushion sea stars.

Steven Phillips, General Manager of Finolhu, said the initiative extended beyond coral restoration: “This represents a unique opportunity to unite resorts, share expertise, and promote marine conservation at the highest level. Healthy reefs are essential not only for the Maldives’ biodiversity but also for the wellbeing of local communities and the sustainable future of tourism. Through this collaborative effort, we have created a lasting impact in safeguarding these underwater landscapes for our guests and for generations to come.”

Coral conservation remains crucial in the Maldives, where reefs provide natural protection against coastal erosion, support fisheries relied upon by local communities, and sustain the nation’s tourism industry. Pressures such as rising sea temperatures, pollution, and human activity have intensified threats to these ecosystems, making restoration work increasingly vital to preserve the country’s natural heritage and marine resilience.

The four-day initiative combined restoration activities with knowledge exchange. Morning briefings prepared participants for the day’s dives, while afternoon sessions focused on reef assessments and equipment readiness for subsequent activities. This integrated approach not only accelerated restoration but also enhanced regional expertise in reef management.

The event forms part of Finolhu’s wider environmental stewardship strategy. Alongside coral restoration, the resort manages a coral nursery, monitors reef health, and develops sustainable marine practices to ensure the vitality of its house reef. Guests are also encouraged to engage with conservation initiatives through experiences such as the Coral Conservation Package, which combines education with hands-on involvement in reef restoration projects.

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Freediving with tiger sharks: Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah collaborates with marine biologist Andriana Fragola

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Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah, renowned for its world-class scuba diving encounters, has announced an exciting expansion: the chance to freedive with tiger sharks in the Maldives’ southernmost atoll.

Fuvahmulah, often hailed as the “Tiger Shark Capital of the World,” is the only place on the planet where year-round encounters with tiger sharks are virtually guaranteed. With more than 280 identified resident tiger sharks, the island has become a bucket-list destination for divers and marine enthusiasts alike.

The newly introduced freediving experience offers a unique way to interact with these apex predators. Unlike scuba diving, freediving takes place without bubbles or heavy gear, allowing participants to connect with tiger sharks in a quieter, more natural way. This approach often makes the encounter more comfortable for the sharks and more intimate for the diver.

Guiding these expeditions is Andriana “Andy” Fragola, a marine biologist, shark diver, and conservationist currently based in Hawaii. Andy holds a Master’s Degree in Marine Conservation Biology with a focus on shark microbiology and has dedicated her career to shark research, conservation, and public education. Through her work in media and content creation, she strives to raise awareness about the importance of shark conservation and inspire people to take action to protect marine ecosystems.

“Freediving with tiger sharks is a raw and transformative experience,” says Andy. “Being eye-to-eye with these incredible animals without the barrier of scuba gear allows you to see them for what they truly are—powerful, intelligent, and essential to the health of our oceans.”

Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah ensures that all freediving activities are conducted under strict safety protocols. With experienced professionals like Andy leading the dives, participants can expect both an exhilarating and responsible adventure.

Why this experience stands out:

  • Eye-to-eye encounters with tiger sharks in their natural habitat.
  • A deeper, more personal connection with marine life.
  • Expert-led guidance ensuring safety and conservation awareness.

In addition to freediving, Shark Expedition Fuvahmulah offers a range of packages, including accommodation options, making it easier for adventurers to fully immerse themselves in the island’s extraordinary marine environment.

For bookings and more information:
📧 Email: sales@scuba-expeditions.com
📱 WhatsApp: +960 9894653
🌐 www.scuba-expeditions.com

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Experience ocean encounters: Manta Month at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

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Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has announced the return of Manta Month this September, following the success of last year’s initiative. Now established as an annual programme, the celebration offers guests of all ages the opportunity to engage with the ocean while supporting marine conservation, with a particular focus on the manta ray.

Throughout the month, guests are invited to take part in guided excursions to known manta hotspots, led by the resort’s experienced team, who share insights into manta behaviour and conservation. Awareness talks highlight the story of a manta rescued near the island, serving as a reminder of the resort’s continuing efforts to protect marine life. Children can enjoy manta-themed arts and crafts as well as beach games, while the wider community will join reef and island clean-up activities, with collected waste repurposed into manta sculptures. In addition, proceeds from manta pendant sales at the resort’s retail boutique will be donated to The Manta Trust, extending support for research and protection initiatives.

Located close to several of the Maldives’ top ten dive sites, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives places importance on the wellbeing of the ocean and its ecosystems, a priority shared by both guests and staff. The resort’s sustainability initiatives are aligned with IHG’s purpose, True Hospitality for Good, through its Journey to Tomorrow programme, which supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrates a commitment to long-term environmental protection.

Commenting on the event, Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, said: “What started as a special event last year has now grown into an annual month-long celebration. Kandooma Manta Month is not just about seeing these magnificent creatures up close, but about creating meaningful experiences that inspire awareness, responsibility, and care for our ocean environment.”

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