OBLU SELECT Sangeli Joins Forces with EPA to Protect Coral Reefs

Thursday 10th of July 2025

OBLU SELECT Sangeli has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Maldives Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), marking a significant step in public–private collaboration for marine conservation. The partnership focuses on the shared management and monitoring of the Rasfari Reef Restoration Programme.

Despite widespread coral bleaching across the Maldives, Sangeli’s reefs have remained resilient. This is credited to the resort’s long-standing marine efforts, which have already seen more than 10,000 coral fragments transplanted using nursery and frame methods.

The resort’s proximity to the Rasfari Marine Protected Area—just 25 kilometres or a 20-minute speedboat ride—makes Sangeli an ideal partner for this national initiative. The marine biology team at Sangeli brings practical experience and a strong commitment to reef restoration.

The MoU was officially signed on July 2, 2025, during a ceremony held at the resort. Ahmed Ashraf, owner of OBLU SELECT Sangeli, welcomed EPA Director General Ibrahim Naeem to formalise the agreement.

“Working directly with the EPA empowers us to make a deeper impact. It’s about more than one reef—it’s about coming together to safeguard the future of these vital ecosystems,” said Ashraf.

As part of the agreement, Sangeli’s marine team will contribute to reef health monitoring, conservation protocols, and training alongside EPA specialists. This partnership combines regulatory support with hands-on expertise to improve protection efforts and build long-term ecological resilience in the region.