Featured
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi promotes Ahmed Ali to Director of Sales & Marketing, appoints Florante Abuton Jr as Assistant PR & Communications Manager
Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is pleased to announce the promotion of Ahmed Ali (Adu) from Assistant Director of Sales & Marketing to Director of Sales and Marketing and welcomes Florante Abuton Jr. to the team as Assistant PR & Communications Manager.
Based on property, Adu has been a key component of the hotel’s sales and marketing team for the past five years. In his new role, he will be responsible for developing new business opportunities, creating, and executing marketing campaigns, managing a dynamic team of business development personnel, and leading and executing the sales and marketing strategies for Sun Siyam Iru Fushi.
His outstanding leadership skills, and his extensive understanding of the hotel and the Maldives tourism industry, as well as his ability to interact with clients and partners, have earned him recognition and respect from both his colleagues and key clients. Adu joined Sun Siyam Resorts in 2019 as Sales Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, and has since then been pivotal in growing sales and increasing revenue for the resort. Prior to that, he had a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, having previously held several front office and sales positions at Soneva Resorts and South Lux Ari Atoll in the Maldives.
Originally from the Maldives, Adu has graduated from Taylor’s University in Malaysia in International Hospitality Management. He has a solid grasp of the business and a drive to quality that will help him succeed in his new role.
Abdullah Atham, Resort Manager at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi says: “We are confident that Adu will continue to excel in his new role and remain focused on developing creative ways to raise brand awareness and boost sales for Iru Fushi. His promotion is a testament to his hard work and dedication, as well as his talent and knowledge of the ever-evolving hospitality industry.”
Florante originates from the Philippines, is based on property as well, and joined the property earlier this year 2023. He will be assisting the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi sales & marketing team in all matters PR, communications, press, media, and marcomm related.
In addition to the day-to-day pr activities on the resort, Florante will support the Director of PR & Communications at Sun Siyam Resorts, in implementing the public relations, communications, and marcomm strategies, initiatives and projects for Sun Siyam Iru Fushi as well as looking after all press and media trips on the island.
With over 11 years of international experience in the hospitality industry and prior to moving to the Maldives, Florante worked for some of the biggest names in the hospitality and automotive industries, including Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, Nissan Middle East, Marriott International, Hilton Hotels, Emaar Hospitality, and, most recently, Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts.
His background in hospitality and professional skill set in public relations, combined with his bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication, makes him the perfect fit for this role.
Speaking about his new role, Florante said; “I am thrilled to be joining this magnificent Maldives resort and look forward to working with the incredible islanders and global teams to contribute to that wonderful and understated luxury Maldivian holiday experience, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi has always been recognised for.”
Nestled in the natural beauty of Noonu Atoll and a scenic 45-minute seaplane flight from Velana (Male) International Airport, the five-star Sun Siyam Iru Fushi spans 52 acres and boasts 221 villas and suites, perfecting the balance between rustic charm and understated luxury. This is a true island playground for families, groups of friends, couples and honeymooners alike. Guests can choose from a variety of meal plans and benefit from the excellent dine around program of 14 restaurants & bars, including French cuisine at the overwater restaurant Flavours; Asian fusion at Bamboo and freshly caught fish at Islander’s Grill. An award-winning Spa by Thalgo France with more than 140 treatments to choose from, make this tropical island the perfect wellness getaway. And for families, kids under 15 sleep and eat for free with two paying adults in the same room and all whilst enjoying and discovering local marine life at Nemo’s Reef and recreational activities at Koamas Kidz Club.
Drink
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Flor de Caña mixology event with Dinesh Mondkar
The Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series recently hosted a mixology event at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort, featuring Dinesh Mondkar, Flor de Caña’s brand ambassador for India.
The event gave guests an opportunity to explore a selection of rum cocktails while learning more about the craftsmanship and heritage behind the Flor de Caña brand. Set against a sunset backdrop over the ocean, the session combined cocktail-making techniques, brand storytelling and a relaxed island setting.
Guests were introduced to a range of cocktails that highlighted bold flavours and the versatility of rum in contemporary mixology. The evening also offered insight into the methods and presentation behind premium cocktail service, adding an interactive element to the experience.
The event formed part of the resort’s ongoing Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series, which continues to bring recognised figures from the international spirits industry to the Maldives. Through the series, the resort aims to expand its food and beverage offering with curated events that connect guests with global brands and industry expertise.
Such experiences are designed to complement the wider guest programme by combining destination dining and beverage concepts with the setting of the Maldives, while offering visitors a more immersive way to engage with the resort’s hospitality offerings.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground
Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.
The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.
The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.
The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.
Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.
Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.
Featured
World Art Day inspires new Graffiti Club at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has launched the Graffiti Club to mark World Art Day, introducing a team-led initiative focused on artistic expression, collaboration and storytelling through art.
The resort said the initiative brings together more than 18 team members from across different departments, reflecting a shared interest in creativity. As part of the project, selected back-of-house spaces have been turned into canvases, transforming staff areas into spaces for artistic work.
Inspired by the natural environment of the Maldives and the Maamunagau lagoon, the first set of artworks features marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. The resort said the designs reflect the biodiversity of the destination and its connection to the surrounding ocean. Additional artwork is also being developed as the project continues.
InterContinental Maldives said the initiative is rooted in its brand culture and service philosophy, Inspire Incredible, and is intended to support creativity, collaboration and self-expression among team members.
Renuka Gupta, cluster director of learning and development, said creativity exists in every individual, regardless of role or background. She said the initiative was created to provide team members with a space to express themselves, connect with colleagues and contribute to the environment in which they work each day.
The resort said the Graffiti Club forms part of its wider approach to workplace culture, with a focus on creativity, wellbeing and personal expression alongside the guest experience.
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