Maldives Highlights Tourism Priorities at UN Meeting in Jakarta
UN meeting held in Jakarta, Indonesia. | Photo credit: Ministry of Tourism and Environment
The Maldives outlined its key tourism priorities at a UN meeting in Jakarta, with a focus on boosting local island tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening environmental conservation efforts.
The Maldives was represented by the Minister of State for Tourism and Environment, Dr Abdulla Niyaz, who participated in 37th Joint Meeting of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the UNWTO Commission for South Asia which also includes the 60th meeting of the South Asia Commission.
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During meetings, which began on 15 April 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia, Dr Niyaz co-chaired the 37th Joint Meeting and the 60th CSA Meeting.
He also highlighted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has prioritised the development of the tourism industry, particularly in response to the rapid changes taking place in the global landscape. Dr Niyaz noted that key efforts are underway to bring the benefits of tourism directly to island communities, with the aim of supporting local economies and creating opportunities for visitors to experience Maldivian culture and heritage.
He also expressed gratitude to stakeholders in the tourism sector for their continued efforts in environmental conservation, highlighting the importance of sustainability as the industry grows.
According to Dr Niyaz, over 2 million tourists visited the Maldives in 2024, solidifying the country’s position as one of the most developed tourism destinations in the South Asian region.
