The government has decided to introduce eco-tourism on Haa Dhaalu Atoll Keylakunu, the only island in the Maldives meeting all the criteria for a 'true forest'.
Principal Secretary to the President on Public Policy, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, announced the decision at a press conference, highlighting the Economic Council's resolution to develop Keylakunu as an ecotourism destination.
The council also committed to conducting a comprehensive study, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and other stakeholders, to explore sustainable ways of showcasing Keylakunu's natural beauty and marine life without harming the island's ecosystem.
The Visitor Economy Council has planned the establishment of a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly visitor center on the island. The center aims to provide visitors with complete information about the island's history, historical locations, and the surrounding life.
“We have also decided to study the possibility of building floating rooms for visitors to the island without damaging the reef and corals,” he said.
Keylakunu, an uninhabited island, was declared a protected island in 2017 due to its unique character.
While a resort was opened on the island in 2017, concerns raised by environmental groups led to the abandonment of the project by the then government. Known for its mangrove-covered landscapes, Keylakunu gained attention for its distinctive features, including large trees and various plant species.
Formerly an agricultural island, Keylakunu served as an island for gathering wood and the collection of coconuts.
The island's history includes the story of "the storm that destroyed Keylakunu," referring to the heavy impact of rainfall in 1820, prompting the inhabitants to flee the island.
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