Marriott International has appointed Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives, as the new Chairman of the Marriott Maldives Business Council. This change, effective 4th January 2025, follows the leadership of Renato De Oliveira, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Handunwala is now the third person to hold this influential position in the council’s history.

A Strong Commitment to Sustainability and Community Development

Handunwala shared his enthusiasm about his new role

“It’s an honor to lead the Marriott Maldives Business Council. The Maldives is more than a destination; it’s a thriving community with a rich cultural and environmental heritage. I look forward to working closely with the council, local government, NGOs, and our neighboring communities to amplify Marriott’s commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and hospitality excellence.”

As Chairman, Handunwala intends to build on Marriott’s history of impactful community engagement and sustainable development. He aims to continue fostering collaboration with local communities, government partners, and business stakeholders. Furthermore, his leadership will focus on advancing Marriott’s environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals. By doing so, he will ensure Marriott’s dedication to sustainability remains a central part of the company’s mission.

With over 18 years of experience in luxury hospitality, Handunwala brings a wealth of knowledge. His focus on sustainable practices and resort management has defined his career. At W Maldives, he led significant efforts to modernize the property, including the installation of a bio gas plant. Additionally, at a previous property, he was instrumental in creating a 100% single-use plastic-free environment. His initiatives highlight his unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability.

Oriol Montal, Managing Director of Luxury for Asia Pacific excluding China at Marriott International, voiced his support for Handunwala

“Amila’s leadership in sustainable hospitality and his proven track record in the Maldives make him the perfect fit for this important role. We are confident that his expertise and passion will drive the Business Council’s work forward and continue to create lasting positive impacts in the region”

The Marriott Maldives Business Council

The Marriott Maldives Business Council is an essential component of Marriott International’s global network of councils. These councils help advance the company’s mission to build a loyal and valuable travel community. The Maldives Business Council consists of general managers and associates from Marriott’s diverse portfolio of brands. Their goals include fostering community engagement, promoting environmental sustainability, and advocating for the hospitality industry.

The Council places a strong emphasis on collaboration, sustainability, and advocacy. These priorities align with Marriott’s Serve 360 program, which guides the company’s ESG efforts. In addition to supporting Marriott’s ESG initiatives, the council’s key responsibilities include fostering leadership, driving market performance, and strengthening community ties. It also focuses on encouraging sustainable business practices and nurturing associate development and engagement.

In December 2024, the Marriott Maldives Business Council renewed its partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) by extending its Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership, for the second year of the Sister Islands Initiative, is part of USAID’s Democracy Delivers program. It aims to promote economic integration and sustainable development by connecting resort islands with local communities. The renewed MOU will continue to empower local communities, especially women and youth. Projects will focus on agricultural innovation, sustainable tourism, and resource conservation.

W Maldives is one of several prestigious resorts within Marriott Bonvoy’s Maldives portfolio. Other well-known properties include The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, and Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa. In January 2025, Marriott will add the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, marking the eighth Marriott Bonvoy resort in the Maldives.