The Visit Maldives Club (VMC) officially launched the Maldives’ biggest sports fishing tournament, “Burunu Boma,” on 20th December 2024, at a ceremony held at the Malé Table Tennis Hall. The event was honoured by the presence of the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam.

The launch marks a significant step in promoting sports tourism in the Maldives and highlights the nation's commitment to sustainable fishing practices. The Burunu Boma tournament, scheduled to take place between April and May 2025, is designed to attract international fishing enthusiasts and participants from the Maldives tourism industry. The Burunu Boma microsite and the winner’s digital shield were also unveiled at the event.

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam armed the substantial contribution of the sports fishing community, particularly within the Maldives. He identified the Burunu Boma tournament as the largest of its kind in the nation and announced its upcoming venue as Crossroads Marina, marking a significant first for the location. The Minister expressed confidence that this event will further stimulate tourism and attract a greater number of sports fishing enthusiasts to the Maldives.

"This is just the start," declared MMPRC CEO and MD Ibrahim Shiuree, outlining a strategy to diversify Maldivian tourism. “With several events leading up to it, Burunu Boma will become a flagship international sports fishing festival. We aim to secure a prominent place on the international tourism calendar, making the Maldives a direct destination for sports fishing enthusiasts," MMPRC CEO and MD Ibrahim Shiuree explained.

Ahmed Saaif, President of Visit Maldives Club, emphasized the long-term vision for the tournament, stating, “This tournament is planned in such a way that it will be held each year, establishing it as a key event in the Maldives tourism industry.”

The Burunu Boma tournament strongly emphasizes the “catch and release” method, prioritizing the protection of the Maldives’ marine environment. This commitment to sustainability aligns with the Maldives’ broader tourism strategy, which has focused on environmental protection since the inception of the industry.

The Visit Maldives Club aims to elevate the Maldives' position as a premier global destination by supporting sustainable practices and showcasing the nation's potential for sports tourism.