Featured
MOPA, partners launch waste segregation programme in Kudahuvadhoo island
The Maldives Ocean Plastics Alliance (MOPA), together with the organisation’s partners and the Dh. Kudahuvadhoo Council officially launched the ON THE GROUND, IN THE SEA: WASTE SEGREGATION MODEL ISLAND KUDAHUVADHOO programme in Dh. Kudahuvadhoo, on Thursday.
The launching ceremony was attended by MOPA officials and Dh. Kudahuvadhoo Council Members, as well as representatives of key partners Male Aerated Water Company Limited (bottlers of “Coca-Cola” beverages), Dhaal Atoll Education Center, Live and Learn, Dhaalu Airport, Manta Air, Dh. Kudahuvadhoo Women’s Development Committee, International Pole and Line Fishing, Kudahuvadhoo Waste Management Center and West Marine.
In his opening remarks, the Founder and Chairman of MOPA, Mr. Thoriq Ibrahim highlighted that the Waste Segregation Model Island programme was one of the flagship projects of MOPA. He noted that the programme was conceptualised early last year, and expressed his satisfaction that the endeavour had become a reality, with MOPA being able to handover the much-needed bins and bags required to implement a full-scale segregation of waste on the island. “Kudahuvadhoo can become the first island to fully comply with the new waste management regulation, including segregation at household levels”, he added.
The ceremony at Dh. Kudahuvadhoo Waste Management Center was kick-started by handing over the waste collection bins to officials of the Dh. Kudhuvadhoo Island Council. This was followed by a community awareness and educational session on solid waste management, segregation at source and recycling, which was held at Dhaalu Atoll Education Center. The session was attended by the Centre’s students, their parents and the Members of the Dh. Kudahuvadhoo Council.
MOPA’s initiative provides over 1000 bins in total, with each household being allotted two bins, 4 gunny bags for the collection of Metal & Glass Wastes, Plastic Waste and Other (Mixed Wastes). This allows to complete the facilitation of the households to segregate 4 types of waste (Organic Waste, Plastics, Metal & Glass, Other (mixed wastes) and the waste management centre to efficiently collect and manage the island’s waste. Island Council through the Kudahuvadhoo Waste Management Center (KWMC) then facilitates daily collection from the households and take the segregated waste separately to the KWMC.
MOPA’s program also includes transporting all collected PET bottles from Kudahuvadhoo to Malé. From there, the plastic is exported for recycling by Parley Maldives. Since its inception in September 2020, MOPA has collected over 40 tonnes of plastic.
The programme on Dh. Kudahuvadhoo also involves educating and raising public awareness on solid waste management and recycling. MOPA thanks the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Technology for their support and assistance in preparing the programme material.
At Thursday’s launching ceremony, Ibrahim Fikuree, the President of the Island Council thanked MOPA and its partners for their support, and reiterated the commitment of the Council and the island community to successfully implement the programme. “We are focused on become the first island to fully comply with the new regulation”, he said.
Featured
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Awards
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Awards
Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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