The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) hosted the 4th Edition of the MATI Member Forum today at H. Meerumaa, Malé’. Held under the theme “Coastal Protection and Island Dynamics”, the forum brought together representatives from relevant government ministries, MATI members, industry stakeholders, and experts to discuss key issues related to coastal protection, island dynamics, and innovative approaches to coastal management in the Maldives. The forum was also graced by the presence of Hon. Minister Ali Shareef, Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, whose attendance underscored the government’s commitment to addressing the environmental challenges facing the Maldives.

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The event commenced with a recap of previous editions of the MATI Member Forum, along with discussions on unresolved issues and ongoing challenges affecting the tourism industry raised in previous forums.

The Forum featured a series of presentations by industry experts and organisations working in the field of coastal management and sustainable development. Coastal Assembly delivered a presentation titled “Growing Coastlines with Intelligence – How AI is Transforming Beaches into Self-Improving Assets”, focusing on the role of artificial intelligence and innovative technologies in enhancing coastal resilience.

This was followed by a presentation by LAMER (Land & Marine Environmental Resource Group Pvt Ltd) titled “Application of Numerical Modelling in Coastal Protection and Island Reclamation”, highlighting the scientific modelling and forecasting tools utilised by them in supporting coastal engineering and reclamation projects.

A panel discussion on “Coastal Protection and Island Dynamics” followed, moderated by Dr. Ahmed Shaig, Director of CDE Consulting. The panel included Mr. Mohamed Aslam, Director of LAMER; Mr. Mohamed Inaz, Director of Climate Change & Sustainable Development at Nexia Maldives; and Mr. Asad Ali, Secretary General of MATI. The discussion focused on regulatory challenges, emerging technologies, practical solutions, and the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors in addressing coastal protection, management, and environmental challenges faced by the Maldives.

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The session concluded with an open floor discussion, allowing participants to raise additional concerns and share insights on matters affecting the tourism industry.

The Forum concluded with a networking lunch, providing an opportunity for further engagement among participants.