Showcasing exceptional skill and endurance, Maldivian freediver Umair Badheeu has earned international acclaim after setting three new national records at the prestigious Manado Depth Competition 2025, held from 1–3 August in the pristine waters of North Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Now in its third year, the Manado Depth Competition is Indonesia’s only international depth freediving event, organised by Apnea Murex. This year’s edition brought together 22 elite freedivers from 11 countries, making it a highly competitive arena for showcasing underwater athleticism. The event took place in the biodiverse waters of North Sulawesi, a destination renowned among divers for its rich marine life and crystal-clear visibility, conditions that test and inspire freedivers from around the world.
Umair delivered a remarkable performance, securing 3rd place in the Men’s Overall category and setting three consecutive Maldivian national records each achieved on a separate day across three disciplines recognised by AIDA International (Association for the Development of Apnea), one of the sport’s leading global governing bodies:
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Free Immersion (FIM) – 68 metres: Descending and ascending by pulling on a rope without the use of fins.
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Constant Weight No Fins (CNF) – 42 metres: Diving without fins, relying solely on arm and leg strength.
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Constant Weight Bifins (CWTB) – 68 metres: Using a pair of bifins to descend and ascend.
Speaking after the competition, Umair described the experience as a blend of physical precision and mental resilience:
“Competing in Manado was both a technical and mental challenge. Achieving three records in three different disciplines over three days was intense, but very rewarding. I’m proud to represent the Maldives and grateful for the ongoing support that allows me to pursue this journey.”
That support comes from Kaimoo Resorts and Hotels, a leading hospitality group in the Maldives and Umair’s official partner in his athletic development. With a portfolio of renowned properties such as Embudu Village, Summer Island Maldives, and Equator Village, Kaimoo is deeply rooted in the Maldives tourism industry and actively promotes sustainable practices and local talent development.
Mohamed Manih Ahmed, Managing Director at Kaimoo Resorts and Hotels, expressed pride in Umair’s achievements:
“We’re immensely proud of Umair’s accomplishments on the international stage. His determination, humility, and performance exemplify the spirit of Maldives. We are honoured to support his pursuit of excellence and hope his achievements inspire more young Maldivians to explore this emerging sport.”
Umair’s success is more than an individual milestone it strengthens the Maldives’ reputation as a nation connected to the ocean, not just through its world-class resorts and thriving marine tourism, but also through competitive aquatic sports. His performance at Manado highlights the Maldives’ potential as a training and competition hub for freediving, where the country’s warm, clear waters and abundant marine biodiversity offer ideal conditions for the sport.
As global interest in niche adventure sports and marine-based tourism grows, Umair’s achievements add to the Maldives’ appeal as a destination where visitors can not only relax in luxury resorts but also engage with the ocean in exciting and inspiring ways from recreational diving and snorkelling to witnessing elite freediving in action.
With his name now firmly etched in Maldivian sporting history, Umair Badheeu continues to elevate national standards while bringing international attention to the Maldives both as a top-tier tourism destination and as a rising presence in the global freediving community.
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