The Eastern Coast Hotel Association (ECHA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and appointed Arshed Refai, General Manager of Sun Siyam Pasikudah, as its new President.
The meeting marked not only an administrative milestone but also a clear statement of intent, reflecting growing confidence among East Coast hoteliers that Pasikudah, with its calm bay, unhurried pace, and natural beauty, is ready to step out of Sri Lanka’s shadow and into the spotlight.
ECHA brings together hoteliers along Sri Lanka’s Eastern Coast with a shared objective of raising Pasikudah’s profile, improving coordination among member properties, and building a stronger, unified voice to advocate for the region’s development.
The newly appointed committee sees Neranjan continuing as Vice President, with Ruwan as Secretary, Priyanka as Treasurer, and Hafi as Assistant Treasurer.
Speaking after his appointment, Refai outlined an ambition that extends beyond individual properties, emphasising the need to position Pasikudah as a premier tourism destination in Sri Lanka and the wider region.
He also highlighted the importance of sustainability in that journey, from reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting local communities and protecting the coastline that defines the destination. The tone throughout was collaborative rather than directive.
“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,” he said.
Sri Lanka’s tourism sector has entered 2026 with renewed confidence, and the East Coast, long considered a quieter counterpart to the island’s better-known southern and western regions, is drawing increasing interest from travellers seeking less conventional destinations. Pasikudah’s calm, shallow bay, relaxed pace, and natural beauty continue to set it apart.
Sun Siyam Pasikudah, which hosted the AGM, is part of the Sun Siyam Privé Collection, a Maldivian-owned hospitality group, and offers 34 boutique villas.
