A New Beginning at Sun Siyam Iru Veli: Coconut Palms and the Spirit of Eid

Saturday 5th of April 2025

Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s Eid Al-Fitr celebrations this year beautifully blended the joy of the season with a deep reverence for Maldivian culture and the environment. The festivities, which began on March 30th, saw the resort’s sandy shores come alive with a variety of traditional games. Guests, both young and old, participated in a colorful and lively beach event, with the ‘Kula Jehun’ festival taking center stage. This vibrant celebration, a traditional color festival, painted the beach with bright hues, bringing the spirit of Eid to life in a truly unforgettable way.

However, the highlight of the Eid celebrations came on April 1st with the official opening of Magoodhoo Beach. This milestone moment marked not just a celebration of the season, but also a testament to Sun Siyam Iru Veli’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and nature preservation. The resort invited guests to a sundowner cocktail that paid homage to one of the Maldives’ most beloved natural elements—the coconut palm. A symbol of growth, utility, and resilience, the coconut palm holds a significant place in the hearts of the Maldivian people, and this event brought its importance to the forefront.

A Symbol of Renewal and Preservation

The coconut palm was not just the theme of the cocktail event; it was also at the heart of a unique conservation initiative. Guests were invited to participate in planting their own coconut trees along the newly opened beach, creating a lasting connection to the resort that they can return to and cherish for years to come. This event was a symbol of growth and renewal, much like the season itself. It was a celebration of not only nature but also the future of the island’s environment.

The coconut palms planted on Magoodhoo Beach were particularly special. The 71 trees that had already been relocated from N. Magoodhoo due to a road development project were joined by 80 more palms planted by the guests during the event. The transplantation and ongoing growth of these resilient palms represent more than just ecological preservation; they signify new beginnings, hope, and the enduring bond between tradition and environmental sustainability. Each tree stands as a reminder of the resort’s commitment to ensuring that both the natural world and the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives continue to thrive.

Celebrating the Coconut Palm in Every Form

Throughout the event, the many gifts of the coconut palm were on full display. Guests had the opportunity to explore handcrafted souvenirs made from palm leaves, each piece a tribute to the resourcefulness and creativity of Maldivian artisans. The resort also offered a selection of cocktails and canapés featuring coconut as the central ingredient, highlighting the versatility of