Maldives Travel and Tour Operators (MATATO) has officially inaugurated People's Edition as part of the Maldives Travel Awards. People's Edition was inaugurated by President of MATATO Abdulla Ghiyas at a ceremony held at One and Only Reethi Rah.
Speaking at the function held to launch the award, President of MATATO Abdulla Ghiyas highlighted the achievements of the organisation in the past few years. Moreover, Ghiyas revealed nomination opportunity are open for a period of two months. This year, MATATO will recognise 5 individuals through the award, selected based on their contribution to the industry.
Winners will be selected by a panel of judges consisting of veterans in sectors across the industry, according to MATATO. Winners will be announced at the gala ceremony to be held in October.
Launched in 2017, Maldives Travel Awards: People's Edition recognises successful pioneers and long-serving individuals in the travel industry of Maldives. Through the awards, MATATO intends to recognise professionals contributing to the growth of the industry, to acknowledge the talent, dedication and their achievements. This year marks the seventh edition of the Maldives Travel Awards.
Meanwhile, at the ceremony to launch People's Edition, MATATO signed with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance the Maldivian tourism as a sustainable tool. The agreement was signed by President of MATATO Abdulla Ghiyas and UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Maldives Shoko Noda.
Under the agreement, joint training programmes, awareness of climate change and mitigation and programmes will be conducted to empower youth and women in the sector.