News
SC Capital Partners and Reethi Beach Resort collaborate with MWSRP for the second consecutive year
For the second consecutive year, Reethi Beach Resort has renewed partnership with Maldives Whale Shark Research Program (MWSRP) with the support extended by the resort’s parent company, SC Capital Partners Pte Ltd., a local program with a global impact.
Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP) was founded with the mission of understanding the population dynamics of the whale sharks in the Maldives and how these fit into the species’ existence in the wider world. The charity’s objectives are to promote, for the benefit of the public, the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural environment of the whale shark and marine biological diversity.
Despite being the biggest fish in the ocean, the threats the whale shark faces today are many and almost entirely caused by human impact. It is difficult to quantify the exact number of whale sharks alive today, however their populations have fallen by 50% and are actively in decline.
The need for protection is on the rise as whale sharks contribute immensely towards managing our marine ecosystem. The nature-based motivation of conserving these species ultimately feed into the economic motivations for protecting them. The more economic value we, as a local society, see in protecting nature and its processes, the more the human race will benefit globally from a sustainable future. It is to note that whale shark tourism directly contributes to local livelihoods here in Maldives and provides an alternative income to fishing whale sharks and other sharks. As mentioned before, whale sharks play a role in balancing the marine ecosystem.
The reasons to protect whale sharks are clear and very beneficial for our livelihoods. The whale shark has been protected by law here in Maldives since 1995. Today with the help of organizations such as MWSRP through collaborative efforts from stakeholders similar to SC Capital Partners Pte Ltd and Reethi Beach Resort, community-driven initiatives have worked towards putting protection into practice and making it as efficient as possible, since this joint venture took flight last year.
As part of this partnership with MWSRP, SC Capital Partners Pte Ltd and Reethi Beach Resort will jointly sponsor the MWSRP once again to conduct intensive research in the famous Hanifaru Bay renowned for its Manta gathering and whale shark aggregations. The partnership will also include sponsored educational trips for local young Maldivians to create both awareness about marine biodiversity conservation as well as potential job opportunities. While being based at Fonimagoodhoo island due to the resorts close proximity to the only UNESCO Biosphere situated in Maldives, Reethi Beach Resort is delighted to be part of this program and further strengthening their stance on its commitment to sustainability in the hospitality industry and paving the way towards a more holistic approach towards upholding its core values on sustainability. The team from MWSRP will be supported by Ocean Fantics (a water sports and dive centre) based on the island, who will play a key role in the upcoming research project, in helping them navigate and collect data both on land and sea.
As one of the founding members of the Baa Atoll Resorts United (“BAARU”), which collaborates with resorts in Baa Atoll to discuss and address environmental issues collectively, Reethi Beach Resort is delighted to once again support MWSRP through the support extended by SC Capital Partners Pte Ltd. to continue in supporting the research and conservation of these gentle giants. SC Capital Partners Pte Ltd is committed to investing responsibly and meaningfully to enhance and protect the value of their assets. They integrate ESG best practices into their operations and assets such as using energy, water and waste efficiently, generating renewable energy, and improving biodiversity conservation. Through adopting group sustainability practices, Reethi Beach Resort has also been awarded the Green Globe Certification. As part of the collaboration with MWSRP, along with Reethi Beach Resort, SC Capital extends its support beyond the Maldivian archipelago in globally supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of 2030.
Featured
Noku Maldives unveils long-term Sea Turtle Conservation Programme
Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection, has announced the launch of a dedicated Sea Turtle Conservation Programme, developed in partnership with the Atoll Marine Conservation Centre (AMCC). Beginning on 25 November 2025, this long-term initiative strengthens the resort’s commitment to the Vignette Collection pillar Means for Good, reflecting a considered approach to environmental stewardship and responsible hospitality.
The waters surrounding Noku Maldives support a naturally thriving ecosystem, characterised by extensive seagrass meadows, coral-rich shallows, and warm lagoons that provide an essential refuge for sea turtles. In recent years, the island has recorded multiple nesting events along its shores — a rare and significant indicator of the health of its marine environment. The new programme aims to safeguard and enhance this natural heritage.
As part of the collaboration, a full-time AMCC marine biologist will be stationed on the island to lead a comprehensive portfolio of conservation activities. This will include monitoring the local sea turtle population, assessing reef and coral health, supporting long-term scientific research, and conducting fieldwork and outreach initiatives across neighbouring islands.
The programme will also enhance guest engagement through educational talks, guided snorkelling experiences, and hands-on conservation workshops, offering visitors the opportunity to connect with the underwater world in an enriching and meaningful way.
The initiative complements Noku Maldives’ growing suite of Means for Good activities, which already include reef conservation studies, coral restoration projects, cultural experiences, and community-led programmes. Together, these efforts underpin the resort’s commitment to delivering stays that are rooted in authenticity, responsibility, and deep respect for the natural environment.
“Our lagoon has always been a peaceful refuge for sea turtles and marine life,” said Hussain Shahid, General Manager of Noku Maldives. “This partnership with AMCC reflects our dedication to protecting these waters and ensuring they continue to flourish. By bringing conservation, community involvement, and guest education together, we hope to create meaningful and lasting impact for the atoll.”
Featured
From spa rituals to sunrise yoga: Angsana Velavaru champions mindful living
Surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru invites guests to embark on a holistic journey of renewal that nurtures both body and mind.
At the centre of this experience is the award-winning Angsana Spa, inspired by the timeless essence of Asian wellness traditions. Here, the healing power of touch, scent, and nature come together in harmony. Guests can enjoy a range of treatments designed for both relaxation and family bonding, including restorative massages, revitalising body polishes, and signature rituals that incorporate natural ingredients such as coconut, honey, and tropical herbs. Each therapy aims to rejuvenate, soothe, and restore a deep sense of inner calm that reflects the island’s natural rhythm.
Wellness at Angsana Velavaru extends far beyond the spa. The resort’s approach to wellbeing embraces movement, mindfulness, and meaningful connection. Its modern tropical fitness centre provides a tranquil setting for guests to stay active while remaining close to nature. Activities such as aqua aerobics in the Kuredhi Pool and sunrise yoga on the beach combine physical vitality with mindful awareness.
Across the island, guests are encouraged to slow down and reconnect with their surroundings. Guided meditation, breathwork sessions, and sunset yoga create opportunities for reflection and relaxation. These practices are seamlessly woven into the resort’s environment, offering a sense of serenity that lingers long after the stay.
Under the guidance of Wellbeing Director Artemasius Harefa, Angsana Velavaru’s holistic programmes align with Banyan Group’s Eight Pillars of Wellbeing, with a focus on rest, movement, mindfulness, and connection. The result is a collection of experiences designed to inspire balance and renewal, giving guests the opportunity to embrace a more mindful way of living.
“Modern travellers seek more than rest; they seek renewal,” said Artemasius Harefa, Wellbeing Director at Angsana Velavaru. “Our goal is to create experiences that help guests reconnect with themselves and the natural world, turning wellness into a meaningful way of life.”
At Angsana Velavaru, wellbeing is not a moment but a continuous journey shaped by nature, connection, and the healing spirit of the Maldives.
Awards
Trans Maldivian Airways named World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025
Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA), the world’s largest seaplane operator, has once again strengthened its position as a global aviation leader with new accolades at the World Travel Awards 2025. The airline was named the World’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025 and the Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator 2025, acknowledging its continued contribution to air connectivity across the Maldives. The 32nd Annual World Travel Awards ceremony took place at Exhibition World Bahrain and was attended by more than 300 leaders from the international tourism industry.
Established in 1993, TMA has played a central role in shaping the Maldives’ aviation and tourism sectors. Operating the world’s largest seaplane fleet with 65 DHC-6 Twin Otters and serving over 80 resort destinations, the airline provides vital connectivity across the archipelago with a focus on safety, reliability, and operational efficiency. Conducting more than 400 flights daily, TMA remains essential in enabling access to resort islands nationwide.
Commenting on the achievement, A.U.M. Fawzy, CEO of Trans Maldivian Airways, said: “This prestigious recognition from the World Travel Awards, year after year, reflects the trust placed in our team by our partners and guests, and the responsibility we carry as the primary air service provider connecting resort destinations across the Maldives. At TMA, our focus remains on continuous improvement and building on decades of service excellence. As the tourism industry in the Maldives continues to evolve and grow, we will continue strengthening our operations and supporting the long-term development of the Maldives as a world-leading destination.”
TMA continues to enhance its operational capabilities through ongoing investments in fleet upgrades, infrastructure, staff training, and technology-driven improvements, ensuring it meets rising demand while maintaining its hallmark of dependable service.
As the Maldives prepares for further growth in visitor arrivals, Trans Maldivian Airways remains committed to working closely with industry partners, supporting national tourism objectives, and ensuring a seamless and reliable travel experience for guests visiting the country’s island destinations.
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