Raa Tourism Expo Honours Raa Atoll Tourism With Accolades For Contributions

Monday 10th of October 2022

On Saturday, the Raa Tourism Expo 2022 awards ceremony was held in the island of Dhuvafaru in Raa Atoll. The ceremony was graced by the Vice President of the Maldives, H.E Faisal Naseem and the Minister of Tourism, Dr. Adbulla Mausoom, along with other notable dignitaries from the government and the tourism industry. During the Expo, different tourism establishments and individuals that have significantly contributed to the Raa Atoll Tourism were recognized and presented with accolades for their invaluable services.

At the awards, three main accolades were given, namely Koimalaa award, Bathootha award and Dhandahelu award. More than 10 resorts operating in the atoll received the Koimalaa Award from the Vice President. The Bathootha award was presented to Ahmed Anwar working at Meedhupparu Island Resort in recognition of winning an international accolade. Moreover, Minister of Tourism awarded 10 recipients with the Dhandahelu award, acknowledging 20 years of service to the Raa Tourism Industry.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice President commended the diligent works of tourism sector employees during the past 50 years and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to them. Bearing in mind the exceptional sacrifices of the tourism sector staff, particularly the youth, the Vice President attributed the development of the industry to their credit.

Marking the Golden Year of Tourism, the Vice President remarked that the collective efforts of all stakeholders led to the success of the tourism sector. In this regard, he highlighted on the challenges faced by the industry during the worst-struck times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

On the occasion, Minister of Tourism stressed on the importance of distinguishing those who have immensely contributed to the progress of the tourism sector in the last 50 years. In his address, he noted that Raa Atoll hosted the most festive celebration to commemorate the golden jubilee of the tourism industry.

The Raa Tourism Expo 2022 saw many other events during the duration including a culinary arts competition, watersports event and a handicraft exhibition. The Vice President gave awards to the winners of the handicraft exhibition and in return was presented with a commemorative plaque of appreciation from the Raa Atoll Council.