Jawakara Islands Maldives has inaugurated the nation’s largest marine research facility, a significant advancement in marine science and conservation, furthering efforts to protect the Lhaviyani Atoll’s unique ecosystem. The opening ceremony, attended by government officials, scientists, and stakeholders, underscored the collaborative approach to environmental stewardship.
Officially opened by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim and Mohamed Moosa (Uchu), Chairman of Champa Brothers Maldives Pvt Ltd, the ceremony included Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan and Chief of Defence Force Ibrahim Hilmy. Minister Thoriq expressed government support for designating Lhaviyani Atoll as a biosphere reserve, highlighting the center’s crucial role in this endeavor. Crown and Champa Resorts’ CEO Mohamed Solah discussed the group’s broader sustainability initiatives, while Sarah Moosa, Managing Director at Crown Company and Chairperson of Crown and Champa Resorts, emphasized the project’s importance for biodiversity protection.
The new center will monitor the delicate marine environment, focusing research on climate change, coral reef health, and marine biodiversity. Equipped with advanced laboratories, quarantine facilities, and classrooms, the center will facilitate both local and international research, offering valuable hands-on training opportunities for students. Filip Petre, representing the owners of Champa, acknowledged the contributions of his father, Director Lars Petre, and Chairman Mohamed Moosa in bringing the project to fruition. He emphasized the center’s vital role in responding to environmental emergencies, such as oil spills or threats to marine life.
The center’s launch coincides with the first Atoll Maldives Workshop, held from September 1st to 5th, 2025, at Jawakara Islands. This event brings together leading scientists in marine biology, island ecology, earth sciences, and social sciences to develop practical solutions for atoll conservation, biodiversity protection, and community sustainability.
Filip Petre highlighted the center’s unique guest experience, emphasizing its educational opportunities for families, particularly those with children. He explained that the resort and research center staff will collaborate to integrate guests into best practices, promoting environmental awareness and connection. Jawakara Islands Resorts, in partnership with the Olive Ridley Project, also unveiled a new Turtle Health Institute, featuring advanced marine veterinary science, including stem cell therapy. Equipped with two ICU tanks and five additional tanks, this institute is slated to open within a month.
The Marine Science Centre boasts five state-of-the-art laboratories, including a specialized coral lab focusing on spawning techniques to enhance reef restoration and resilience against rising sea temperatures and disease. Mr. Petre outlined the long-term vision for the center, which includes establishing partnerships with universities worldwide to facilitate regular visits from professors and students throughout the year.
The establishment of this comprehensive marine research center represents a significant commitment to environmental conservation and scientific advancement in the Maldives. Its focus on collaborative research, education, and community engagement positions it as a key player in protecting the delicate marine ecosystems of the Lhaviyani Atoll and beyond.
