Sun Siyam Pasikudah GM elected as ECHA President

On April 10, 2026, hoteliers along Sri Lanka’s Eastern coast gathered at Sun Siyam Pasikudah to confirm a new chapter for the Eastern Coast Hotel Association (ECHA), appointing Sun Siyam Pasikudah General Manager Arshed Refai as its new President. 

The meeting was as much a statement of intent as it was an administrative milestone, reflecting a growing conviction among the East coast hoteliers that Pasikudah, with its calm bay, unhurried pace and quiet natural beauty, is ready to step out of Sri Lanka’s shadow and into the spotlight.

The 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, Refai 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. 

He also spoke about the role sustainability must play in that journey, from reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting local communities and protecting the coastline that defines the destination. 

“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,” Arshed said.