Marriott International announced Amila Handunwala’s appointment as a Marriott Representative and Executive Board Member for the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI). Handunwala, Chairman of the Marriott Maldives Business Council and General Manager of W Maldives, will serve in this role until February 2026. The announcement took place during MATI’s 35th Annual General Meeting on February 9, 2025, underscoring his significant influence on the growth of the Maldivian hospitality sector.
Handunwala’s Vision for Maldivian Tourism
Handunwala expressed excitement about the opportunity, saying:
“It’s an honor to serve as a board member of MATI and contribute to the future of Maldivian tourism. Tourism is the heartbeat of the Maldives, and by fostering stronger collaborations between hospitality brands and local entrepreneurs, we can preserve its authenticity while driving innovation, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship. I look forward to working alongside my fellow board members to set new benchmarks for responsible tourism and create a lasting, positive impact on our communities and the environment.”
Moreover, with nearly 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Handunwala has led innovative and sustainable practices in resort management. At W Maldives, he spearheaded eco-friendly initiatives, such as installing a bio-gas plant, reflecting his commitment to responsible operations. In a previous role, he transitioned the resort to a 100% single-use plastic-free environment, setting a new standard for sustainable hospitality in the region. In his new executive role with MATI, Handunwala will advocate for a regulatory framework that upholds industry best practices and fosters collaboration to ensure a sustainable future for Maldivian tourism.
Chairman of Marriott Maldives Business Council
Marriott International appointed Handunwala as Chairman of the Marriott Maldives Business Council on January 4th, 2025, alongside his role as General Manager of W Maldives. He succeeded Renato De Oliveira, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and became the third individual to hold this prestigious title in the council’s history.
The Marriott Maldives Business Council plays a key role in Marriott International’s global network of councils, advancing the company’s mission of building a loyal and engaged travel community. The council, which includes general managers and associates from Marriott’s diverse portfolio, prioritizes community engagement, environmental sustainability, and the growth of the hospitality industry. Its efforts align with Marriott’s Serve 360 program, which drives leadership, market performance, and sustainability.
MATI’s Role in Shaping Maldivian Tourism
Since its founding in 1982, MATI has driven tourism growth in the Maldives as a non-profit, non-governmental entity. Over the past 40 years, MATI has consistently led efforts in promoting responsible tourism, shaping industry policies, developing the local workforce, and preserving the country’s unique cultural heritage. Furthermore, the organization collaborates closely with government agencies to align regulations with international standards and actively promotes the Maldives as a premier global travel destination.
