2013-04-24 — /travelprnews.com/ — Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) have confirmed that the 2nd annual MATATO Maldives Travel Awards will be held at Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort early December 2013.
During yesterday’s sponsor signing ceremony at Mookai Suites, President of MATATO Mr. Mohamed Khaleel announced that a number of changes had been made to improve the only one of itskind awards. Vice President of MATATO Mr. AbdullaGhiyashas added that this year’s awards will see the introductionof several new categories, including a category specifically for guest houses. Mr. Abdulla Ghiyas went on to explain that the participation process for nominees will commence during April 2013. Vice President of MATATO Mr. Mohamed Riyaz, who was also present at the ceremony, stated the need to hold a travel awardsas a way to acknowledge and celebrate excellent service across the sector. It was a sentiment echoed by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts & Culture Mr. Maleeh Jamal, who reiterated the importance of such an event and the wide impact it can have onMaldives’ tourism industry. He expressed his appreciation to MATATO and the event manager Highrise for their combined efforts in organizing the event. Mr. Maleeh Jamal also thanked this year’s sponsors for their valued contribution and assuredthem that their support to the industry will be rewarded with the utmost exposure and business.
Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA) is the main sponsor of MATATO Maldives Travel Awards 2013, with STO, The Hawks and Allied Insurance co-sponsoring the event. Coca Cola and Bon Aqua have been chosen as the official beverage partner, and Semicolon as the official technology partner. Associate partners are Whiteshade, Astrabon, Sunbrella and Vam &Co. The event’s sound and lighting will be carried out by Music World and Sound & Lights Inc. respectively, and photography will be provided by Ahmed Razeen. Media partners include Maldives.net.mv, Maldives VIP, Visitingmaldives.com and Floating Asia.
MATATO has appointed leading events management company High Rise Pvt Ld to organize and manage the Maldives Travel Awards for a period of three years.
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