Jawakara Island Maldives Resort, operated by Crown and Champa in Lhaviyani Atoll, officially opened its Marine Research Center. The event was attended by key government officials, including Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim and Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan, along with Mohamed Moosa, owner of Champa Brothers.
During the ceremony, Crown and Champa Resorts CEO Mohamed Solah emphasized the company’s commitment to environmentally friendly development. Solah highlighted that the resorts already use solar energy to cover 30 to 40 percent of their electricity needs.
He explained that the oceans are one of the Maldives’ most important resources and stressed the need to protect marine life and study the sea. According to Solah, the Jawakara Marine Research Center is a key initiative to provide opportunities for individuals interested in advancing in marine and environmental research while contributing to ocean conservation.
Tourism Minister Thoriq Ibrahim described the opening of the research center as a significant milestone for the country. He pointed out that environmental research is crucial to national development and aligns with government policies aimed at protecting the Maldives’ natural resources.
Thoriq also noted that the government is working to designate Lhaviyani Atoll as a biosphere reserve. A research center like Jawakara’s will be an important partner in achieving this goal.
The Jawakara Marine Research Center includes a fully equipped research laboratory, quarantine facilities, and classrooms for study. These resources will support a wide range of scientific projects and training for students and researchers in the Maldives.
In conjunction with the center’s opening, Jawakara Island will host the first "Atoll Maldives Workshop." This five-day event brings together experts from New Zealand’s Oakland University and the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
The workshop will focus on the formation of atolls and the rich biodiversity of Maldivian waters. Around 28 scientists from various countries will participate, including specialists in marine biology, island ecology, earth sciences, and social sciences. Leading environmental researchers from Maldivian organizations will also contribute to the discussions. The conference began yesterday and will continue today, providing a platform for sharing research findings and fostering collaboration.
Jawakara Island is also developing the Turtle Health Institute in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project, an organization dedicated to turtle conservation. The institute is expected to be completed next month and will be equipped with modern technologies, including stem cell therapy and advanced treatments for turtles.
According to Jawakara, the institute will provide a safe environment for studying and rehabilitating turtles while supporting long-term conservation efforts in the Maldives.
The new marine research center and associated initiatives mark a major step in combining sustainable tourism with environmental protection. By providing resources, hosting international workshops, and focusing on marine conservation, Jawakara Island aims to contribute to a healthier ocean and a more sustainable future for the Maldives.
