The Islandchief, Travel Tabloid 23 | June Issue 2018

VOL 23 | JUNE 2018 | www.islandchief.com

Email : news@islandchief.com | Hotline : +960 9994534

Dine Around Baa Atoll 6 Resorts, 14 Days, 1 Event!

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com

AVIATION PRESS

Qatar Airways

Partners Up with Football Sporting Giants Boca Juniors

2 December 2016 through a strategic investment by acquiring 10 percent of South American LATAM Airlines Group.

“Qatar Airways is delighted to partner with world-renowned Football Club Boca Juniors as we enhance our sporting sponsorship portfolio with the world’s best teams,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker.

“We are excited to further expand our presence in South America with our brand represented on the club’s jerseys, and look forward to supporting the Boca Juniors in their forthcoming seasons.”

Qatar Airways is further strengthening its sporting partnerships around the world with the announcement that from the upcoming season (2018/19) it will become the Official Jersey Sponsor of the world-renowned Argentinian football club the Boca Juniors through the 2022/23 season.

Qatar Airways is already renowned for championing sport as a means of connecting communities around the world. Qatar itself celebrates a dedicated National Sports Day each year, while the airline already partners with other football club giants such as leading German football team FC Bayern Munich AG, of which it is a Platinum Partner, and as announced in April, as Main Global The new partnership further strengthens Qatar Airways’ global partnership Partner of AS Roma, with the airline’s logo appearing on the team’s shirts. portfolio and will see the airline’s logo proudly appear on the club’s jerseys, allowing the Qatar Airways brand to be seen by millions of football fans around Qatar Airways is also the Official Airline Partner of FIFA, which includes 2018 FIFA the world while championing the airline’s belief of sports as a means of bringing World Cup Russia™, the FIFA Club World Cup™, the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ people together. and the 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™, as well as the Form”la E electric street racing series.

“We are very proud and grateful that one of the most prestigious airlines in the world has chosen Boca Juniors as part of their regional expansion strategy in Qatar Airways proudly flies one of the youngest fleets in the sky, featuring the South America,” said Boca Juniors President, Mr. Daniel Angelici. world’s most technologically advanced and environmentally friendly aircraft. The airline operates a fleet of more than 200 modern aircraft to a network of more “We are sure this agreement will be very fruitful for both institutions in fulfilling than 150 critical business and leisure destinations across Europe, the Middle their objectives and goals.”

East, Africa, Asia Pacific, North America and South America.

Qatar Airways has long celebrated strong ties with the South American As well as being voted Skytrax ‘Airline of the Year’ in 2017 by travellers from continent, where it flies daily to São Paulo and the capital of Argentina, Buenos around the world, Qatar’s national flag carrier also won a raft of other major Aires, since 2010. Qatar Airways Group further strengthened these ties in awards at last year’s ceremony, including ‘Best Airline in the Middle East,’ ‘World’s Best Business Class’ and ‘World’s Best First Class Airline Lounge.’

Singapore Airlines

Launches the Longest Non-Stop Flight in the World Singapore Airlines has announced that the world’s longest non-stop flight will temperature. These particular-900ULRs will also have fewer seats than on officially begin jetting between Singapore and New York by the end of 2018. standard A350 to lower the overall weight of the aircraft, though Singapore Airlines hasn’t announced specifics.

The airline just completed its first test of the cutting-edge Airbus A350-900ULR, a new variant of the jet lag–busting A350 that can fly up to 11,160 miles adding Previously, the airline had used the A340-500 on the 15,323km journey from up to 20 hours without refuelling. The Airbus A350-900ULR embarked on its first Singapore to Newark, New York. However, the four-engine commercial jets were test flight on 23 April, which made a five-hour round trip that launched from the returned to Airbus in 2013 due to the high cost of fuel and the issue that there air-framer’s assembly plant in Toulouse, France. were only 100 business class seats on board.

Singapore Airlines will be the first airline offering the record-breaking 20-hour The ULR will be capable of flying 17,960 km, which will return the title of world’s long-haul flight, having ordered a total of seven ULRs, which comes as part of a longest non-stop air route to Singapore Airlines. commitment to 67 A350-900 jets (21 of which have been delivered so far).

Bearing in mind that this is still an almost 18,000km plane journey, which will According to the airline, like Airbus’s other A350 planes this model will also fight inevitably mean a lot of pins and needles in passengers’ legs, the 900 ULR’s have jet lag as passengers fly, with a lighting system that mimics the daylight at their also been designed to ensure greater comfort. This includes “fully dark” cabins, destination to get them prepped for the time change and an air management the guarantee that all rows will have a window, reduced noise levels and an system that renews the air every two minutes while helping regulate cabin active humidification system.

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com AVIATION PRESS

Srilankan Airlines

Announces Special Fares for Participants of Maldives Showcase Srilankan Airlines has announced special fares for participants of the First Edition the association represents more than 50 travel agents and tour operators in of Maldives Showcase which will take place at Taj Samudra, Colombo from July the Maldives. Since 2006, MATATO remains the only travel & tour operators 26th to 27th 2018. association representing the interests of tour operators in the Maldives.

According to Ace Aviation Maldives, the General Sales Agent (GSA) of Srilankan Airlines, participants of the event will get 15% off on economy class and 10% off on Business Class.

Maldives Showcase is an event organised by Highrise in collaboration with Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) that will showcase businesses and individuals from various industries of the Maldives ranging from tourism, trade, talent and F&B sectors.

Highrise was formed in 2007 as a graphic design and event management company and quickly expanded into a full-fledged marketing firm operating from Male’, Maldives & Colombo, Sri Lanka. Highrise offers comprehensive solutions and holistic approaches to challenges, which have made a significant difference to many well-established organisations.

In addition to hosting The Maldives Showcase, Highrise has successfully initiated and organised successful local and international events such as Maldives Living Expo, Maldives F&B Show, Vacations Expo, Print & Advertising Service Show, South Asian Travel Awards (SATA), Sounds of Maldives to name a few.

Maldives Association of Travel Agents & Tour Operators (MATATO) was found in 2006 by a group of enthusiastic tour operators of Maldives. Currently,

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ISLAND PRESS

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St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Launches Luxury Priority 'Coast' bicycles for guests Style and luxury are at the heart of Priority’s bicycle designs. Each bike is built without a traditional chain. Instead, the bikes use a unique Gates Carbon Drive Belt, which will not rust and are less prone to coming loose or breaking as metal chains.

Guests at the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will also be able to ride safely in the knowledge that they won’t have to change a flat, as each bike is fitted with puncture-proof tyres.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, which opened in November 2016, is nestled on a private island in a secluded Maldivian atoll, amidst thriving marine life. Just 40 minutes from Velana International Airport by seaplane, guests are transported into a newfound paradise in the Dhaalu Atoll.

The resort draws inspiration from nature itself. Designed by WOW Architects | Warner Wong Design (Singapore), the unusual contemporary design of The St. Regis Maldives draws inspiration from the natural setting of the resort. This is represented by the manta ray shaped lagoon villas, a signature bar in the shape Guests staying at the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will be able to of a whale shark, a lobster inspired spa and a spiral shell formed library. experience luxury on two wheels with the hotel’s new fleet of Priority bicycles.

The Priority ‘Coast’ bicycles are designed in the classic ‘beach cruiser’ style to provide maximum comfort and the smoothest of rides. Built with coastal climates in mind, the luxury bicycles can resist salt, sand and water thanks to their ultralight aluminium rustproof frame and forks.

There are six distinct dining venues, including an Asian speciality restaurant, a modern Italian restaurant that features a grand staircase, an underground wine cellar restaurant, a shack style restaurant, a signature overwater bar that rolls out stunning views of the dramatic sunset and a pop-up restaurant in the middle of the resort.

The addition of the Priority ‘Coast’ bicycles to the range of activities on offer at the St. Regis Maldives means guests can fully explore the private island or travel from their villa to the resort’s pool, restaurant and other facilities with ease. The hotel will be the first resort in the Maldives to offer these purpose-built bicycles to guests.

Additionally, guests can also enjoy the Iridium Spa, which presents six overwater treatment rooms, including two that are dedicated to healing Ayurvedic treatments. Spa guests can also enjoy a Blue Hole pool, which contains heated seawater with different water jets – a system with proven benefits to the body.

“The new Priority ‘Coast’ bicycles perfectly complement the recreational activities we offer to all of our guests. The bicycles have been designed explicitly for use in a tropical, seaside environment so they can be used to travel around the island quickly and in any weather. We are sure our guests will be as delighted with these new bicycles as we are,” says Alexander Blair, General Manager at the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort.

A best in class bicycle company, Priority was launched in 2014 by David Weiner, who gave up his career as CEO at a software firm to return to his first love, making high-quality bicycles for everyday riders.

“The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is unique in that its luxurious location is also exposed to harsh environmental conditions that can break down a bicycle quickly. We have designed the Priority ‘Coast’ cruiser to take on the harsh salt, sand, and seawater on the private island without sacrificing the design aesthetic that is essential to the high-end guest brand experience,” says David Weiner, CEO of Priority.

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com ISLAND PRESS

Students Graduate from Adaaran Kurimagu Management Training Programme 2017-18 Adaaran Kurimagu Management Training Programme 2017-18, which was conducted by the Adaaran Learning & Development over the past year, has been completed and had their graduation night, “Adaaran Dhasvenivun 2018” on Monday, 7th May at Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi.

According to Corporate Learning & Development manager of Adaaran Resorts, Mr. Tharaka Apuhamy - the Adaaran Kurimagu management training programme was generated from the context of corporate social responsibility to train & develop young Maldivians. The management trainees came from Kaafu, Raa, Gaafu Dhaalu, Haa. Alif & Haa Dhaalu Atolls, covering a good cross section of the entire Maldives.

Adaaran Kurimagu programme lasted for 12 months, with 2500 Hours of theoretical & hands-on practical training in all the departments of resort operations. The first six months of the programme was spent in learning the necessary skills in all departments and the balance six month was intensive on the job training in a selected department. They had the opportunity of working in all resorts in all departments in Adaaran before they choose what they are good at and love to do.

The ceremony started with the recitation of Holy Qur’an and its translation, followed by a speech about how the training programme began. Some of the talented staff gave a beautiful boduberu performance.

Dr. Mariyam Shakeela, who was a special invitee congratulated the graduates and gave motivational women empowering speech, where she highlighted with concern, about the less number of women who are willing and able to work in this field.

“Always think big and dream the impossible. Always be prepared to face the challenges. Seek what you desire and aim for perfection relentlessly, with courage and commitment. Although perfection is not always achievable, your attempt towards perfection will achieve excellence. The desire to win is the key to motivation,” said Dr. Mariyam Shakeela.

A total of 7 Maldivians completed the programme, where all of them are employed by Adaaran resorts now. Furthermore, they also gave out the certificates to the employees of the year 2017 -18 from Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi and Adaaran Club Rannalhi.

Special awards were given to the best Sustainability programme, Most outstanding assignment, Most promising personality and Most outstanding student. Shazeem Ali, who was awarded as the most outstanding student believes that this is an extraordinary opportunity for the youths of the Maldives who wants to build a career in the hospitality industry.

Mr. Rajan Britto Deputy Chairman of Aitken Spence & Company gave an inspirational speech. The ceremony was concluded with the National Anthem, followed by a fellowship dinner. Furthermore, Mr. Hemantha Ratnayake, Director Product & Service Development spoke very high of the participant’s commitment and the outcome of the programme and he is confident that the participants would achieve greater success in their professional career.

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ISLAND PRESS

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives

World's first pilot project to harness electricity from powerful surf waves launched The world’s first pilot project to harness electricity from powerful surf waves was officially launched at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives recently.

The project is the brainchild of Professor Tsumoru Shintake of The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University (OIST), the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MEE) of the Republic of Maldives and Kokyo Tatemono Company Limited (Kokyo) of Tokyo, Japan. The project involves testing prototypes of the Wave Energy Converter units (WEC-units) in the Maldives with the aim of supplying sustainable energy and reducing carbon emissions.

Professor Tsumoru Shintake, leader of the Quantum Wave Microscopy Unit, OIST, and his colleagues designed special WEC-units which can capture energy from surf waves along the shore-line and convert it into usable electricity, as part of the wave energy project which was launched in 2013. Professor Shintake’s WEC-units have been carefully designed, taking inspiration from nature: the blade design and materials are inspired by dolphin fins and the flexible posts resemble flower stems. One of the principal features of the WEC-units is that the generating turbines are designed to be located at the mean sea level to harness the wave energy most effectively.

Wave energy is the most suitable form of renewable energy for the Maldives.

The fact that wave power provides a continuous stream of energy gives it a major advantage over other types of renewable energy, such as solar panels which cannot generate electricity at night. This reduces the requirement for energy storage systems which can be large and expensive to develop. This is particularly important in a location like the Maldives that has many hotels and remote villages. In the hotels, facilities running throughout the night, such as laundry, desalination water plants, and air-conditioners, are one of the biggest sources of energy consumption.

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Cocoon Welcomed Celebrated Michelin-star Chef Matteo Vigotti for Gourmet Week Chef Matteo Vigotti, who is well known for his reputation for creating sophisticated Italian food and innovation in the kitchen, has showcased Italian fossiled premium food gastronomy from May 06th to May 14th, 2018 at Cocoon Maldives as part of the Gourmet Weekend series of visiting chef.

Chef Matteo is well known for his role in giving guidance to the esteemed food institution Peck of Milan, Italy as the Executive Chef. Formerly of the famous Novecento Restaurant at Lake Maggiore, Matteo Vigotti now practice his art at the world-famous Ristorante Al Peck. Matteo has a reputation for creating sophisticated and innovative Italian food, which is daring, to say the least as Italy is a country where food as a whole is deeply rooted in tradition.

The “Gourmet Weeks” is a project run by Cocoons corporate Chef Giovanni De Ambrosis who invites the most important culinary excellence of Italian and international cuisine to give a gourmet experience for all the resort’s guests.

Throughout the year, guests can take part in various week-long exclusive cooking shows in the resort’s restaurants, during which the visiting chefs will showcase their culinary art. For lovers of gourmet experiences, this is the ultimate show, a combination of food and design for a real a multi-sensory experience.

Located on the pristinely stunning island of Ookolhufinolhu in Lhaviyani Atoll, only a short 30-minute seaplane ride away from Velana International Airport, Cocoon Maldives is best described as an actualisation of a dream to create a unique designer resort that mixes luxury, design aesthetics and hospitality into a unique tropical island paradise.

Designed by renowned Italian firm LAGO, Cocoon’s minimal interiors complement with furniture made from 200-year-old wildwood defer to the overwhelming beauty of the surrounding marine environment and lush green vegetation that envelope the whole island.

The resort also features an expansive reception pavilion, a dive centre, a spa, a lounge, library, gym and kid’s club, in addition to 150 villas on the beach or poised on stilts in the lagoon.

Handy. Healthy. Hygienic.

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CURRENT NEWS

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BML Graduate Internship Programme Officially Begins Bank of Maldives (BML) has officially inaugurated its Graduate Internship The primary business of the bank is retail banking, in addition to handling Programme. development banking activities in all the atolls. Its services include electronic banking, loan facilities, credit cards and debit cards. The bank strongly believes According to BML, the Graduate Internship Programme is an opportunity for new in contributing to the community thus encourages staff volunteerism as well as graduates and students to gain work experience at the Bank. Applications from participate in numerous CSR endeavours.

150 students were received and the bank hired the interns after interviews.

BML has stated that interns will be given the opportunity to earn as they receive their on-the-job training and that those who complete the programme will achieve a level of competence that will be highly beneficial to their career.

Deputy CEO Mohamed Shareef said that interns would also be assigned a mentor and the Bank’s Learning and Development Department will conduct training for the Interns throughout the programme which will span one year.

Interns will graduate upon ‘Good’ performance, attendance and adherence to policies and procedure of the Bank at the end of the programme year. These Interns will be issued a certificate of completion.

Bank of Maldives (BML) is the National Bank of the Maldives, established on November 11, 1982. BML has 29 branches, including four in Male’, the capital, one in Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (Hulhule’ Island) and one each in both Villingili ward and Hulhumale.

Maldives Promoted as a Destination in Russia ahead of the FIFA World Cup The Maldivian government has revealed plans to promote the Maldives on taxis world, while city officials have claimed that over 85 percent of Moscow hotels advertisements in Russia ahead of the Football World Cup. have already been booked ahead of the global spectacle.

Tourism Minister Mr. Moosa Zameer during a ceremony said advertisements of Maldives tourism would be placed on 100 taxis in the Russian capital Moscow while adding that this new initiative is a part of the effort to make up for the adverse effects on the archipelago’s fragile tourism industry following the state of emergency in February this year.

“A lot of people from all around the world would go to support their teams, plus Russia is a key market for us. We’re also trying to improve flight connectivity.

We’re doing this together with MATI [Maldives Association for Tourism Industries] and the tourism industry,” the Minister explained.

A German advertising firm is undertaking the project for EUR40,000. The campaign would begin on June 15 and continue for two months, as Moscow hosts a total of 12 matches including one semi-final and the final of the World Cup. The Russian capital expects to welcome over 1 million visitors from all over the

www.vacations.mv

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com CURRENT NEWS

Ooredoo Launches First Commercially Accessible 5G Network in the World

Ooredoo has announced that the company is the first operator in the world to Access to the Ooredoo 5G Supernet will require a 5G compatible device from launch a live 5G network on the 3.5GHz spectrum band.

Ooredoo. The company has announced that this is just the beginning of the Ooredoo 5G network, which will continue to be expanded over the coming The announcement was made in an event attended by Ooredoo senior months to cover even more areas of Qatar. management at the Ooredoo Tower in West Bay. Attendees were also briefed on the first Ooredoo 5G site which was accomplished just days after Ooredoo’s new Ooredoo is an international communications company operating across the 5G Commercial Core Network was activated.

Middle East, North Africa and Southeast Asia. Serving consumers and businesses in 10 countries, Ooredoo delivers the leading data experience through a broad Ooredoo’s 5G network is the first commercially available 5G network in the range of content and services via its advanced, data centric mobile and fixed world and is an essential technological breakthrough for the telecommunications networks. industry worldwide.

Ooredoo served 164 million customers and generated revenues of USD 8.9 “Today, Ooredoo and Qatar make history. We are the first company in the world billion as of 31 December 2017. Its shares are listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange to offer access to 5G technology and services, and the people of Qatar are the and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange. first to have access to the incredible benefits this technological upgrade will bring.” Said Waleed Al Sayed, Chief Executive Officer of Ooredoo Qatar.

“We dedicate this important milestone to the people of Qatar and to our beloved leaders, who have encouraged this step in building the knowledgebased economy of Qatar.”

The first stage of Ooredoo’s 5G Supernet deployment will cover an area from The Pearl Qatar to Hamad International Airport, with Lagoona, Katara Cultural Village, West Bay, the Corniche and Souq Waqif also included in the initial commercial launch coverage area.

The Ooredoo 5G service offers the latest network technology (5G NR) meaning much higher speeds, capacity, and better latency, than existing cellular systems.

The new network will bring advantages over the previous generations of mobile technology and will enable business and consumer customers to unlock more of their potential and explore opportunities that were just not possible before 5G.

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Baa Atoll Festival 2018

First Time Ever a Destination Concept in the Maldives Amilla Fushi, Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Dusit Thani, Soneva Fushi, Vakkaru Maldives and Finolhu, all located in Baa Atoll, have unveiled their summer event for this year to welcome their guests by joining together with each other. “Baa Atoll Summer Festival 2018” was officially announced on Wednesday, 9th May 2018, at Soneva Fushi Sandbank along with the chefs, Resorts Managers, General Managers and Marine Biologists from each resort.

They believe that this one-of-a-kind and first ever Destination Dining concept will tantalize the taste buds of the guests and make Baa Atoll destination in Maldives a ‘must visit’ during summer. The team have come together to show the strength in the form of a dedicated website and social media account that will be constantly updated with the activities. Moreover, they have created some hashtags especially for this event; #SummerFestival #DineAroundinBaa #TourDeBaa #ItsBetterinBaa #DineAround

“The Baa Atoll Festival is a brilliant concept and opportunity and hopefully becomes an annual event that resorts and guests look forward to and I hope this festival will be marketed to tourists around the world through all these resorts’ PR channels” - Abdulla Giyaas, president of MATATO (Maldives Travel Association of Travel Agents & Tour Operators)

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This unique resorts dine around concept will be held from 20th July to 3rd August 2018, where each resort will present their best dining menu from the participating restaurant, at a fixed price of $120++ per guest with special menu for kids. On the very first day of the Baa Atoll Festival, Friday, 20th July, each resort will be officially launching this festival by having a cocktail evening with their guests as an opening ceremony. This is to help the islands to promote each other and send the interested guests to dine in the other resorts. Guests from each resort will have the opportunity to experience the various cuisines offered by the resorts, on the dedicated nights for each resort. This will give them the chance to taste the creative cuisines and services by other islands during their stay. Meanwhile, along with dining, each resort will offer a series of activities such as water sports, underwater experiences, kids activities and many more, to keep their guests entertained for the 2 week duration of the festival.

Starting from 21st July until the next six days the festival will go as per the following order; Amilla Fushi (Feeling Koi), Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru (Blu), Finolhu (Kanusan), Dusit Thani Maldives (Benjarong), Soneva Fushi (Out of The Blue) and Vakkaru Maldives (Onu). Transportation will be organized by the respected resorts on a daily basis, for a minimum charge of $25++ per person. If the guests would like to repeat their experience in a specific resort, then special arrangements can be made to accommodate the same. On Friday, 27th July, the resorts and the guests will be celebrating a full moon event at their resort. The next six days are scheduled just as the previous order. To finish this festival, the six resorts will team up on a sandbank for a Catamaran Regatta on Friday, 3rd August 2018.

We also got the opportunity to interview with Mr. Mark Hehir, the General Manager of Amilla Fushi & Finolhu Resorts and he has said that they are planning to conduct this event annually and will be adding more activities and improvements in the upcoming years. He also said that the resorts have planned to have an inter resort competition such as football, cricket, volleyball and soccer, in the next year’s festival. Besides this, each resort might consider expanding their food concept every year. Moreover, he believes that the need for such an event is to attract customers to come to Maldives in summer and to promote the participating islands to market themselves.

Visit: www.baaatollfestival.com and follow on Instagram @Baa_Atoll_Festival

“Baa Atoll is a naturally formed clusters of islands and all these islands are open to work with each other. In the future Maldives will be known as where you are staying and not just as Maldives.�

- Mr. Mark Hehir, the General Manager of Amilla Fushi & Finolhu Resorts

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Ahmed Anwar & Tharaka Appuhamy from Adaaran

June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com EVENT & AWARDS

Named Amongst "50 Best HR Leaders in the Maldives" The 50 most talented HR Leaders is an annual list of top 50 HR professionals in back and since then have been actively involved in hosting various training the Maldives published by HR Maldives the only HR magazine in the Maldives. programmes to help their staff develop and nurture their skills. The corporate L&D development works on associate training, associate development, associate “This is an annual list that celebrates the most talented players in the field of engagement, process development and certification. people strategy. These are the people whose ideas and actions are shaping practices in Human Resources.” Reads a statement by HR Maldives.

Adaaran has been an avid contributor to the development and training of the local Community. To date, Adaaran has conducted countless training and According to HR Maldives “50 Most Talented HR Leaders” is the first initiative development event through their CSR initiations. of its kind in the Maldives which provides a listing, along with profiles of the 50 Most Talented HR Professionals. The primary objective of the listing is to Throughout the year 2017, Adaaran Meedhupparu have successfully completed distinguish and appreciate the work done by HR Professionals in the Maldives. the 3rd apprenticeship program on housekeeping operations, conducted 3-month practical training program on essential F&B service & HK Service Adaaran’s Corporate L&D Manager, Tharaka Appuhamy and Meedupparu resort for the staff of Raa Atoll Council and has provided various opportunities, Head of HR Ahmed Anwar were recognised for their outstanding contribution to demonstrations and programmes for students from schools across the atoll to the company in the field of HR. foster, experience and to develop new skills. They have also been recognised previously by SATA for best Leading CSR 2017 and by MATATO for the best Mr. Ahmed Anwar, Human Resources head at Adaaran Select Meedupparu has Leading CSR 2017. actively been involved in providing training to the youth of the Ra Atoll in the field of Hospitality Management. He has also been working closely with the Adaaran Resorts in the Maldives presents unparalleled luxury with a touch Secretariat of the Atoll Council in our human capital development programmes of tradition. Nestled in blissful seclusion, each resort offers a unique set of since January 2014. defining characteristics attracting guests from all over the world. Featuring luxury boutique wellness with a perfect blend of lavish and comfortable Highlights from his educational certification include being a University graduate accommodation in the lap of paradise, the resorts’ efforts are focused on with BTEC diploma in Hospitality Operations & Bachelors Degree in Hotel & providing guests a holiday to be treasured. resort operations under Maldives National University.

Aitken Spence Hotels operates a chain of 21 hotels and resorts in Sri Lanka, “He was the glue that held all activities related to our apprenticeship India, Oman, and the Maldives under two premier brands: Heritance Hotels programmes and management training programmes that were conducted and Resorts and Adaaran Resorts and Spa. Each unique property caters to a in collaboration with Adaaran Select Meedupparu during last four years. He diverse client base, suited to every need and budget while maintaining the high stayed on the top all training provided and coordinated the steps in planning, standards of hospitality which the company is synonymous with. implementation and follow up,” said Fathulla Ismail, Director General Secretariat of Ra Atoll Council.

Mr. Tharaka is the Corporate Learning & Development Manager at the Adaaran Resorts, Maldives overlooking 6 Resorts, L&D activities in the Maldives. He is an outstanding personality in the hotel sector with a plethora of experience and Educational achievements to boast.

“This is my second year working with Adaaran, and we have had quite a lot of programmes to develop the local youth community as well as the 1200 employees working across the Adaaran properties,” said Mr. Tharaka Appuhamy “It is a great honour to be awarded by a local body to a foreigner.”

Highlights from his educational certification include being a Master Graduate in Business Administration, Honours degree in Bachelor of Hospitality and Tourism Management, completing a four-year management diploma in Hotel & Catering Operations with specialisation in Food & Beverage Operations.

The Corporate L&D development of Atiken Spence started about two years

For bookings or information contact: info@bes

Luxury Yacht Charter Latest arrival: Luxury Yacht Seven Seas Brand: Dominator 64S Length: 65 feet Cabins: 3

stdivesmaldives.com

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PROFILE

New White Platinum Plan at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa An all-round carefree package for the highest demands awaits guests at the Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa in the Maldives. With its new extensive White Platinum Plan, the luxury resort caters to the needs of all visitors, from transfers to culinary delights, fine drinks and experiences around the resort. Upon arrival at the airport, the Hideaway team warmly welcomes you and takes you by speedboat to the island of Dhonakulhi. On site for the guest is a wide selection of drinks, wines, champagne, cocktails, juices etc. ready, as well as breakfast, two-course lunch menus, dinner and snacks in between. Fishing, snorkeling or a dolphin tour - for guests to explore the island, a trip is included in each stay.

Those, who prefer to take it easy, can relax with a 60-minute Balinese massage.

Athletes also get their money’s worth at the Hideaway Sports Complex: volleyball, basketball, football, gym and tennis courts, including a 60-minute training session, are ready to be played out. Children can enjoy the Aqua Water Park with trampolines and water slides, and for the youngest, the White Platinum Plan also includes access to the Kids Club.

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com

Ricardo Leal General Manager at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, Maldives Ricardo Leal, General Manager of the Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa in the For the General Manager, the focus is always on the enthusiasm of guests, Maldives, has managed the fortune of the island resort for nearly two years. visiting Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, and the consistent further development of the resort. He pursues these goals with great passion, drawing on his in-depth Under his direction and with his dedicated team, the Resort won seven knowledge and extensive experience in the hospitality industry. international awards only in 2017, including the World Luxury Hotel Awards, the Haute Grandeur Awards and the Luxury Travel Guide Asia and Australasia Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is located on the crescent-shaped Dhonakulhi Awards.

Island in the north of the Maldives belonging to the Haa Alifu Atoll; 290 km from the capital Malé. Following a $50million investment in the redevelopment of the In March 2018, Leal established the White Platinum Plan, a new, comprehensive whole-island and an extensive renovation of the property, previously known as all-inclusive concept for discerning guests at this luxury resort, with dive trips, Island Hideaway, the five-star resort offers guests the luxury of space and privacy dolphin tours, wellness-treatments, multi-course menus, fine drinks, sports and across 297,000 square metres. The 103 luxury villas fall into eight categories many more. ranging from beachfront to over-water. Each villa has been carefully positioned to offer peace, comfort and privacy to guests. Home to the first fully-functional Also in terms of gastronomy, the resort is offering new highlights. With Anton marina in the Maldives, due to its unique reef system, Hideaway Beach Resort Gasnier, the new chef at Hideaway Beach Resort and Spa, Ricardo Leal won a & Spa boasts an enviable dive spot close by. The resort offers an extensive master of his art for French and international cuisine in September 2017. programme of wellness and sporting experiences, vast culinary offering, and one of the largest spas in the Maldives. Characterised by its intimate ambience and Prior to assuming the role of General Manager at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa remote location, the island resort stays true to its name and offers guests ‘a true in 2016, Ricardo Leal held the position of Complex General Manager and also hideaway’. various leading and management positions in luxury hotels in China, Portugal and England.

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com

HISTORY PICK

Addu Atoll : A Watermark of Historical Significance As a result, there was a flood of Addu people to Malé seeking employment in the nearby resorts and also looking for the education for their children. After the British military left, the airstrip was neglected and remained almost unused for many decades. Recently it has been developed into what is now, Gan International Airport.

Geographically there are many unique features in the islands of Addu Atoll. The islands are protected from the storms and high waves of the Indian Ocean by barrier reefs. Coconut palms, the national tree, can grow almost everywhere on the Islands. There are small lakes, wetlands, and marshy taro fields in the islands that are unique.

Addu atoll consists of 6 major inhabited islands of which four islands are connected by land and with small bridge causeways in between. Unlike other atolls of Maldives, Addu City possesses a natural anchorage within the city basin, as the atoll is land-locked with large islands surrounding the atoll. This results in a natural harbour that is very calm and safe for sea vessels at all times and is not affected by seasonal changes.

There are no exact records of when the first settlers arrived in Addu Atoll, but several historians and researchers have concluded that people were living on these islands for more than 2000 years. It is believed the first settlers originated from Sri Lanka and India. The Maldives was previously a Buddhist nation until it embraced Islam 800 years ago. The people of Meedhoo Island in Addu were amongst the first to convert to Islam in the Maldives.

Addu Atoll also possesses particularly rich whale and dolphin fauna. A great diversity of species has been found there. Addu Atoll is the only area in the Maldives that was not affected by the 1998 global coral bleaching.

In addition to boasting various natural aesthetics, the atoll has been known to be widely popular for the various events that it has hosted and has also recently been featured and recreated in a Cities: Skylines Youtube series titled “Seenu”

by Strictoaster. The series started in February 2017 and is set to conclude somewhere around early 2018.

The first bridge connecting two islands in the Maldives was built between Gan Island and Feydhoo in the Southernmost Atoll of the Maldives, Addu in 1942.

During that period, Gan island was used as a British Naval and airbase by the British Military.In 1957, the naval base was transferred to the Royal Air Force.

From 1957, during the Cold War, it was used as an outpost as RAF Gan. The base remained in intermittent service until 1976, when British Forces withdrew.

Most of the employees who had experience working for the British military spoke fluent English. When the base at Gan was closed for good, they turned to the growing tourism industry for employment.

The 17th SAARC summit was hosted by Addu City and neighbouring Fuvahmulah in November 2011. The preparations for the summit brought numerous developments to the city, including the building of a convention centre, development of roads and public places, renovation of Gan International Airport and the regional hospital, more job opportunities among many others.

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com

SPONSORED CONTENT

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Maldives Islamic Bank Introduces

New Mobile Banking Service Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) has introduced mobile banking and launched its In addition to mobile banking, MIB’s electronic banking products and services new mobile banking service, “Faisa Mobile”. The service is provided with mobile include internet banking (FaisaNet), payment gateway (FaisaPay), FaisaATM, applications on iOS and Android and is available now on the Apple App Store and FaisaPOS and FaisaPOS Cash.

Google Play Store.

Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) is a collaboration between Islamic Corporation Faisa Mobile app was launched in a function held at Hotel Jen 8th of May by for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) and the Government of the the governor of Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), Ahmed Naseer and Acting Maldives represented by the Ministry of Finance and Treasury. The total share CEO of MIB, Ahmed Riza. capital of the bank currently stands at MVR. 165 million.

Faisa Mobile is the newest addition to electronic banking services in MIB’s Faisa Maldives Islamic Bank was initiated way back in 2007 when the Maldives product line. Features of FaisaMobile include the standard mobile banking Monetary Authority granted permission to ICD to establish the first Islamic bank features provided in the market, with enhanced and even unique features. in the Maldives.

Standard or standard features include:

In 2009, ICD signed the shareholders’ agreement with the Government of Maldives to initiate the project. This was followed by the incorporation of MIB - Account balances and account histories. on 1st April 2010 and the submission of a formal application for a banking license to the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA). MIB received the banking - Making transfers within a customer’s accounts, to other MIB accounts and licence to conduct Islamic banking business from the MMA on 2nd August 2010. accounts of other local banks.

The bank officially started its business operation on 7th March 2011. MIB - Sharing transfer receipts. aims to provide an alternative to the public and businesses who wish to avail themselves of banking transactions and dealings in strict compliance with Islamic - Favorite accounts or contacts management. banking principles.

- Contacting and sending messages to the Bank.

- Viewing locations of the Bank’s branches and ATMs. - Use of PIN and biometric authentication for securing the app.

- Use of two-factor authentication to validate transactions.

- Enhanced and unique features of FaisaMobile include: - Saving and sharing transactions in user-friendly receipt cards.

- Sorting and filtering account transactions.

- Viewing status of chequebooks and details of their cheques.

- Viewing the clearing status of cheques.

- Stopping and reporting lost cheques.

- Viewing financing facilities of the customer in detail.

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June 2018 | www.theislandchief.com