Hoteliers along Sri Lanka’s Eastern Coast gathered at Sun Siyam Pasikudah on April 10, to confirm a new chapter for the Eastern Coast Hotel Association (ECHA), by appointing Arshed Refai, General Manager of Sun Siyam Pasikudah, as its new President.
ECHA brings together hoteliers along Sri Lanka’s Eastern Coast around a shared purpose: raising Pasikudah’s profile, improving coordination across member properties and building an industry community capable of advocating collectively for the region.
The newly confirmed committee sees Neranjan continuing as Vice President, with Ruwan as Secretary, Priyanka as Treasurer and Hafi as Assistant Treasurer.
In his address following the appointment, Arshed outlined an ambition that goes beyond the boundaries of any single property. The goal is clear: to position Pasikudah as the premier tourist destination in Sri Lanka and the wider region.
“We are stronger together,” Arshed said. “Pasikudah has extraordinary natural beauty, warm hospitality, and immense potential. Together, we must elevate its profile, attract quality visitors and ensure every guest leaves with an experience that brings them back. Responsible tourism is not just the right thing to do. It is the future of our industry.”
A more organised and vocal industry association means the destination now has the collective voice to match what it has always quietly offered.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah, which hosted the meeting, is part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, a Maldivian owned hospitality group. Sitting on a barely-touched stretch of Sri Lanka’s north-eastern coast.
The 34 villa boutique resort is one of the East Coast’s most intimate and secluded addresses. Ocean and garden pavilions sit steps from a magnificent rainbow coral reef, with spectacular national parks, UNESCO heritage sites and neighbouring villages all within easy reach for guests who want to go beyond the beach.
Source: Daily News