News
International Symposium hosted by Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru leads commitments to save sharks and rays
Maldives showed its commitment to preserving the world’s sharks in 2010, when it established a shark sanctuary in its waters. To build on that, the Maldives government and The Pew Charitable Trusts brought leaders from nations in the region together on October 25 and 26, 2015 for a ministerial symposium focused on shark and ray conservation in the Indian Ocean.
Ministers and senior officials from the Maldives, an archipelago southwest of India, welcomed counterparts from Sri Lanka and the Seychelles to talk about the global crisis facing these animals. With 100 million sharks killed annually around the world, attendees discussed the urgent steps needed to safeguard these important species.
The Maldives exhibited global leadership by declaring its waters a shark sanctuary, where all sharks and rays are fully protected and used for profitable ecotourism. Shark and ray ecotourism is now a key part of the country’s economy, with one study estimating its annual value at USD 2.3 million. Research has shown that sharks are worth far more alive than when killed for their fins and meat.
“It is highly encouraging to see Indian Ocean island nations come together to discuss the economic benefits of sustainable shark and ray ecotourism,” said Daniel Fernando of the Manta Trust, which advocates for conservation of manta rays and their habitats.
Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru hosted the symposium, which drew shark experts from around the world to one of the epicentres of sustainable shark and ray ecotourism. Presentations and discussions allowed the region’s ministers to witness firsthand why tourists travel from all over the world to see the manta rays, reef and whale sharks that are abundant in the protected Maldivian waters.
“It’s fantastic to see these governments gather and work together to develop solutions to protect sharks and rays,” said Luke Warwick, who directs Pew’s shark conservation efforts. ‘”Through the development of shark sanctuaries, such as the one here in the Maldives, along with international protections and strong legislation wherever sharks and rays are caught, these imperiled species can survive.”
The Sri Lankan government announced at the symposium that it has submitted a proposal to list all species of thresher sharks on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) for consideration at next year’s meeting of the wildlife trade convention in South Africa. This international conservation leadership from Sri Lanka builds on the listing last November of thresher sharks on theConvention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). Thresher sharks have been identified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as the world’s most vulnerable family of sharks, so the proposal by Sri Lanka is badly needed.
“This action will help ensure that thresher sharks survive,” said Gamini Jayawickrama Perera, Minister of Sustainable Development and Wildlife, Sri Lanka. “We see severe declines in our waters and have acted to fully protect these slow-growing sharks. We want to make sure that governments around the world work together to either fully protect or limit the catch of thresher sharks to sustainable levels, so that they survive for generations to come.”
At the conclusion of the meeting, the ministers agreed on a declaration stating their joint aim to protect the Indian Ocean’s sharks and rays, both in their own waters and through collective, international action. This declaration included further leadership from the Maldives, who committed to support this Sri Lankan thresher shark proposal, and also take decisive action themselves by proposing that the silky shark is also offered protection under CITES.
“With huge quantities of sharks still killed in the region annually, the commitments made in this declaration, and the follow-up actions that need to happen in the coming months and years will be crucial if sharks are to survive and recover in the Indian Ocean,” said Mohamed Shainee, Maldives Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture.
“The Maldives has already taken a lead in regional shark management through the creation of a shark and ray sanctuary, so these species are protected in our waters. We now are reaping the benefits of a thriving ecotourism sector. We now want the world to join us in protecting sharks and rays, starting with the adoption of these CITES Proposals at the CoP next year,” Minister Shainee added.
“As noted in the declaration, the Maldives will be proposing that silky sharks are protected through a CITES Appendix II listing – these are key sharks that keep our tuna fisheries healthy, and we want to see them protected and sustainably managed globally,” added Thoriq Ibrahim, Maldives Minister of Environment and Energy.
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests to join an eco-friendly Easter extravaganza filled with family-friendly activities, special offers, and unforgettable experiences. Running from April 16th to 20th, 2025 it’s the ultimate destination for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
Get ready for an action-packed and eco-friendly Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef! From Easter Egg Hunts to Bunny Basket Making and Easter Mini Olympics, we’ve packed the holidays with fun for the whole family. But this year, we’re taking a greener approach to our festivities. Our eco-friendly theme focuses on reducing waste and using sustainable materials throughout the event.
For instance, when dyeing Easter eggs, we’re opting for natural ingredients like spinach for green, beetroot for red, red cabbage for blue or purple, and turmeric for yellow. Additionally, instead of using plastic decorations, we’re choosing reusable wooden or fabric eggs to minimize environmental impact.
Our SuperLEDShow, featuring internationally acclaimed performers Dennis Kiss and Szulita Szekrényes, will dazzle you with mind-blowing light displays and acrobatics on April 19th and 20th—all part of our commitment to bringing awe-inspiring entertainment in an eco-conscious way.
To top off the celebration, enjoy a Pool Party and a special Easter Beach BBQ, with sustainability at the heart of every detail. Join us for a fun-filled Easter that celebrates not just family, but also our beautiful planet. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers a perfect balance of fun, relaxation, and sustainability, ensuring your Easter getaway is unforgettable.
Easter Offer: Celebrate Easter at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef with an exclusive offer including up to 40% off accommodation, free roundtrip seaplane transfers for two with a minimum 7-night stay, a Lucky Dolphin Cruise, and a gourmet welcome platter with champagne upon arrival. Enjoy additional perks like a room upgrade (subject to availability), free snorkeling equipment, kayaking, and a Veranda breakfast during your stay. Plus, kids under 12 stay and eat for free. Book now to elevate your Easter getaway with unforgettable experiences at this stunning eco-friendly resort. Offer valid for bookings made from 16 February to 20 April 2025, for stays until 23 December 2025.
To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-vilu-reef/offers/easter-offer/.
Family
Sweet sensations take centre stage: Easter at Hideaway Beach Resort with Chef Thomas Alphonsine
Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced a spectacular Easter celebration, blending luxury, culinary excellence, and fun-filled activities for guests of all ages. From April 18th to April 21st, 2025, the resort will host an egg-citing array of events, including exclusive culinary experiences with renowned French pastry chef, Thomas Alphonsine.
As part of the festivities, Chef Alphonsine will lead a series of chocolate masterclasses at Samsara, catering to both adults and children, offering guests the opportunity to craft fun and exquisite desserts under expert guidance. Adding to the culinary indulgence, the resort will host a very special Easter Dinner on the 20th of April.
Beyond the gourmet delights, guests can enjoy an array of wellness and recreational activities, including daily yoga sessions, massage workshops at Hideaway Spa, and thrilling water sports such as group kayaking excursions. Families and young guests will delight in traditional Easter activities, including the Easter Egg Hunt, Bunny Hop Sack Race, and creative workshops such as egg painting and basket weaving.
Each evening, the resort transforms into a lively hub of entertainment, featuring traditional Boduberu performances, themed dining experiences, and DJ-led dance nights at Meeru Bar & Grill. For those seeking a more intimate evening, the Special Dinner at Meeru Beach promises a memorable fine dining experience under the stars.
In regard to the Pastry Masterclasses, Chef Alphonsine expressed: “My desire is to create a feeling, an experience – leaving you with a wonderful memory” said Chef Thomas Alphonsine “In the pastry line, you will find different flavours and textures. I am confident everyone will be able to find one or more pastries they truly love, which creates this feeling”.
Hideaway invites guests to immerse themselves in an unforgettable Easter celebration, where indulgence, relaxation, and festive joy come together in the heart of paradise.
This Easter, Siyam World Maldives is turning up the fun and excitement to a whole new level with its Toon-tastic Easter Bash, running from April 11th to 28th, 2025. It’s not just your average holiday celebration—this is going to be the most epic, action-packed, and laughter-filled Easter event ever. Get ready for an unforgettable family experience with activities and experiences that will have everyone, from kids to grown-ups, grinning ear to ear!
4 x Football Camps with Legends!
Football fans, get ready! Legendary players Theo Walcott (April 7th-11th), Joleon Lescott (April 14th-18th), Christian Vieri & his brother Max Vieri (April 19th-21st), and Javier Saviola (April 24th-28th) will be hosting football camps for kids throughout the Easter Holidays. It’s not just drills—this is about having fun, making memories, and for parents, a bit of well-deserved downtime! Sign up your kids now.
Magical Entertainment & Shows
Expect mind-blowing magic from the sensational UAE Based magician Silis Kopen, renowned for his captivating performances that blend traditional magic with modern flair. His acts are designed to transport audiences to a place beyond their imagination, leaving them in awe and wonder. He has collaborated with some of the world’s top magicians and contributes to the magic community by operating Dubai’s only online juggling school. Don’t miss the Close-Up Magic Show at the Egg Lighting Event on April 18th, followed by a dazzling Stage Magic Show on April 20th—and there’s more magic in store!
Italian Celebrity Chef Gloria Clama
Siyam World will also host Chef Gloria Clama during the Easter period, as part of the Sun Siyam Resorts’ Chef Residency Program. Hailing from the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in Italy, is renowned for her unique culinary creations that fuse the essence of the forest with Mediterranean flavors. Known as the “Chef of the Forest,” Gloria brings her passion for local, seasonal ingredients to life through dishes inspired by childhood memories of foraging in the woods. Her work celebrates the magic of nature, from wild herbs to earthy flavors and her dishes, blending the essence of the forest with the fresh Maldivian sea, will be a true gastronomic delight for all who are lucky enough to taste them.
Toon-tastic Easter Fun!
Get ready for our Toon-tastic Ninja Warrior Challenge and Toon-tastic Amazing Race—a mix of adventure, fun, and surprises. But the grand finale is the Toon-tastic Easter Bash Celebration, a spectacular show that will have everyone dancing, laughing, and celebrating together. Try your hand at the Golf Challenge, race around the track in Go-karting with the family, or experience the thrill of a Jet Car ride. If you’re feeling adventurous, dive in for a Swim with Sharks & Turtles or take a trip to a Private Deserted Island for the day. For the fishing enthusiasts, join in on Big Game Fishing with the Family, or unwind with a Family Photography Package capturing the magic of this special time. We’re also hosting a Cinema by Moonlight and thrilling Parasailing with the Family—there’s no limit to the fun. Mark your calendars for the Kidz Carnival at Siyam World during the Easter holidays at Tempo Beach and enjoy a variety of fun games with exciting prizes and guaranteed good times for the little ones! And for the true adventurers, try the Tru Scuba Diving experience or spend a day at the Horse Ranch for a truly unique adventure. Want to relax? Enjoy a Family Fun Day at the Spa with a $50 spa credit and a 10% discount on Easter day!
Hop into an Egg-citing Easter adventure at Siyam World Maldives with an exclusive offer that includes up to 40% off accommodation with the Premium 24hrs WOW! All-Inclusive package. Enjoy free roundtrip seaplane transfers for one with a 4-night stay or for two with a 7-night stay, plus a special decorated family dinner at one of our specialty restaurants. Families will love that up to 2 children under 11 stay and eat for free! Book now for an unforgettable Easter getaway with fantastic savings and exciting perks.Terms & Conditions: Offer valid for bookings from 16 February – 20 April 2025, for stays until 22 December 2025.
Siyam World’s Toon-tastic Easter Bash is packed with once-in-a-lifetime activities, unforgettable experiences, and plenty of surprises. Whether you’re looking to indulge in world-class dining, try something adventurous, or simply relax and enjoy time with loved ones, this Easter is bound to be the most memorable one yet!
To take advantage of this offer, visit https://www.sunsiyam.com/siyam-world/offers/easter-offer/
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