Dhiraagu appointed main sponsor of reef health assessment photo competition

Local telecom operator, Dhiraagu signed as the main sponsor of a photo competition planned in line with the celebrations of the 50^th anniversary of the Maldives’ tourism industry.

The event is organized by Tourism Ministry, in collaboration with Ocean Geographic Society.

Dhiraagu said that the purpose of the competition is to assess the health of Maldivian reefs, which is planned to be done in a similar manner every year. The photo competition is planned for next week’s Friday, from 7:30am to 17:30pm.

Fifty dive sites in the Maldives have been preselected for the competition. Participants can submit their entries from one dive site, or multiple of their choosing. However, they will be mandated to submit a portfolio including five photos from each site.

A special international judging penal will assess the entries – and select first, second, third and honorable mentions from entries submitted to each dive site. Dhiraagu said that prizes for winners will be announced within the upcoming days.

All participants in the competition will be awarded a contribution of achievement certificate for having contributed the coral reef health assessment. The winners of the competition would be announced on October 9.

Speaking during the partnership agreement signing ceremony, Tourism Minister Dr. Abdulla Mausoom underscored the support by Maldives Alliance of Dive Operators for the event. He stressed that one of the main reasons why tourists visit the Maldives is its beautiful coral reefs.

“I thank Dhiraagu and Ocean Geographic Society to taking in this event being held to celebrate the 50^th anniversary of Maldives’ tourism. Through this competition, we wish to draw special attention to the health of the reefs. We will also work to ensure the good health of the reefs in the upcoming years,” he had said.

Dhiraagu’s CEO, MD Ismail Rasheed said that environment preservation, specifically, underwater preservation, is one of the main basis of Dhiraagu’s CSR. He added that the photo competition in addition to showcasing the underwater beauty of Maldives – will aid in efforts to preserve the environment.

“It is an honor to take part in this important initiative by Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with Ocean Geographic in line with Maldives’ tourism’s golden jubilee,” he stressed.