Mohamed Nasheed, the Speaker of the People’s Majilis and founder of the Maldivian Coral Institute, visited the Diamonds Thudufushi Marine lab. During his visit, he was briefed on the latest research and educational activities by the University of Milano-Bicocca & MaRHE Center across Planhotel properties. The marine biology team showcased various tools used to engage guests in coral reef science, such as the coral adoption programme and a virtual reality tour through coral nurseries. They also discussed the latest developments in coral restoration research with the marine research manager, Dr Inga Denhert.

Mr Nasheed and Dr Inga explored the healthy house reef and restored coral garden that had been impacted by the 2016 mass coral bleaching event. The coral conservation project was launched in 2015, and the first adopted frame was put into the water on July 10, 2015. Since then, Planhotel Marine Labs have facilitated coral reef restoration research conducted by MaRHE Center, leading to the first regional scientific evaluation and publications of best restoration practices. This has provided useful information for restoration practitioners in the Maldives.

During his visit, Mr Nasheed also personally hand-bound the first two volumes of MCI’s “Coral Studies of the Maldives” series, which were gratefully received by the Marine Lab.