Shaping Tomorrow: MU Maniku's Vision for the Future of Maldives Tourism


Maldives
Interviews
PUBLISHED October 06, 2024 | updated October 06, 2024 02:51


In this edition of the Islandchief tabloid magazine, we are honored to feature Mr. Mohamed Umar Maniku, a visionary leader who has significantly shaped the tourism landscape of the Maldives. As the Chairman of Universal Enterprises and the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), Mr. Maniku is renowned for his pivotal role in establishing Kurumba Maldives, the country's first tourist resort.

His innovative spirit and unwavering dedication have helped navigate the numerous challenges of building a thriving tourism infrastructure from the ground up. With decades of experience, he remains committed to fostering a sustainable tourism sector that honors the Maldives' unique cultural and environmental heritage. Under his stewardship, MATI advocates for the interests of both local and international stakeholders, promoting collaboration to ensure the Maldives retains its status as a premier global destination. Mr. Maniku's vision includes developing a skilled domestic workforce and prioritizing sustainability, as he believes in empowering future leaders while preserving the essence of Maldivian tourism for generations to come.

  1. Building the first tourist resort in the Maldives is a remarkable achievement. Can you share some memorable experiences or challenges you faced during the creation of Kurumba Village today known as Kurumba Maldives?

Creating the first tourist resort in the Maldives was an extraordinary achievement, but it came with its fair share of challenges. When we embarked on this journey, the concept of tourism was completely foreign to us. We had no prior experience, no established infrastructure, and no precedent to follow. What truly made the difference was the partnership with a foreign expert who brought essential industry knowledge. While this collaboration was invaluable, it introduced its own complexities as we navigated cultural and logistical differences.

One of the most daunting challenges was sourcing and transporting materials. Local resources were insufficient for a project of this magnitude, so we had to procure nearly everything from abroad. The logistics were immensely challenging—ships had to bring materials from Singapore via Sri Lanka, and the infrastructure in the Maldives was, at the time, extremely basic.

Even after the materials arrived, we faced the laborious task of transporting them from the harbor to the construction site using traditional Dhonis, the local fishing boats. This process was slow, often hampered by unpredictable weather and the limited capacity of the boats. Despite these hurdles, we remained unwavering in our vision. Each challenge reinforced our determination, and in the end, it was incredibly rewarding to see Kurumba Village emerge as a pioneer in what has since become a world-renowned destination for luxury tourism.

  1. As a long serving Chairman of MATI. What motivates your continued dedication to this organisation, and how does MATI contribute to the modern-day tourism in Maldives while many international brands have entered into the tourism sector?

My unwavering dedication to MATI stems from a profound commitment to safeguarding the future of the Maldivian tourism industry. What truly fuels my passion is seeing how even international brands that have entered our market have seamlessly integrated into MATI, becoming active contributors to our shared mission. This collaboration between local stakeholders and global players reflects a collective effort to uphold the best interests of our industry.

MATI plays an indispensable role in championing the needs of all its members. Our focus extends beyond mere business concerns; we are dedicated to preserving an industry that is not only central to the Maldives' economy but also intrinsic to our cultural heritage. 

Through MATI, we create a platform for collaboration, fostering partnerships where insights are exchanged, and challenges are addressed collectively. This unified approach enables the Maldivian tourism industry to thrive amidst intense global competition while preserving the unique charm that makes the Maldives a world-renowned destination.

  1. What is your envisioned impact of a thriving, homegrown hospitality workforce on the nation's economic prosperity and the sustained growth of the tourism industry?

My vision for a flourishing, homegrown hospitality workforce is intrinsically linked to the nation’s economic success and the long-term growth of our tourism sector. We are striving to create a world-class tourism industry that upholds the standards of excellence for which the Maldives is renowned. To realize this ambition, it’s crucial that we invest in the country’s infrastructure while actively involving Maldivian talent in every step of the process. 

I firmly believe that cultivating a skilled domestic workforce is vital. A well-trained Maldivian workforce will not only elevate the quality of our hospitality industry but also play a pivotal role in driving the country’s economic stability and growth.

By investing in local talent, we can reduce reliance on foreign expertise, ensuring that more of the revenue generated by tourism remains within the country. This will open up greater economic opportunities for our people, fostering sustainable growth within the industry. The challenge is to strike the right balance between building the necessary infrastructure and nurturing local talent, enabling us to deliver world-class experiences while empowering our citizens to take a central role in the Maldives' continued success.

  1. You have been an integral part Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) and the aviation sector for a long time, were you able to adapt your strategy to adjust for the VIA project to align with the planned outcomes.

It has been a privilege to contribute to MACL and the Maldives' aviation sector. Over my years there, I've seen significant changes that have improved our air travel infrastructure. While I can’t discuss the VIA project specifics, I can highlight our accomplishments.

In the past seven years, we constructed an internationally compliant airport, crucial for the Maldives. This project went beyond runways and terminals; we aimed to create an aviation hub to enhance our tourism industry and global connectivity.

We also built a modern cargo complex to manage increased goods flow, implemented a state-of-the-art fueling system, and established a VIP terminal. Our extensive seaplane terminal is vital for transporting tourists to resorts.

Efficiency drove our strategy, leading to a hydrant fueling system that streamlined operations. Adapting to meet these ambitious goals was challenging, but we embraced it. Today, VIA exemplifies our efforts, poised to support the ongoing growth of tourism and aviation in the Maldives.

  1. How does MATI plan to navigate the evolving landscape of global tourism while ensuring the long-term viability of the industry in the Maldives? The supply of beds has increased immensely while the demand has not reached to match based on many obstacles. What’s your say on this?

The tourism sector is highly influenced by global events and external factors. While we've faced both prosperous and challenging times due to our key source markets, MATI has adapted to these fluctuations effectively.

Currently, we are addressing the imbalance between the rapid growth of tourist accommodations and slower demand, which threatens profitability and sustainability. Our strategy includes promoting the Maldives as a premier destination, diversifying offerings, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the visitor experience.

Collaboration among government, private sectors, and international stakeholders is essential to create a more stable and sustainable industry. By proactively responding to global trends, we aim to maintain the Maldives' status as a top tourist destination while ensuring a resilient future for our tourism sector.

  1. Human development for the growing demand is important. While Discover Hospitality programme by Universal Foundation has been a significant milestone. How does this program contribute to industry growth, and what sets it apart as substantial?

Developing skilled human resources is essential to addressing the increasing demand within the tourism and hospitality sectors. The Discover Hospitality program by the Universal Foundation has been a groundbreaking step forward in this regard, specifically designed to attract and nurture new talent within the industry. It plays a critical role in bridging the gap between the growing needs of the sector and the availability of qualified professionals.

Each year, the program welcomes a fresh cohort of students, offering them a well-rounded education that blends both theoretical and hands-on training. The academic portion is delivered through Villa College, where students gain a deep understanding of hospitality principles and industry practices. This is seamlessly paired with practical, on-site training at various resorts across the Maldives, providing students with invaluable real-world experience. This combination of rigorous theoretical learning and practical application prepares graduates to excel in their roles, making them versatile and job-ready.

What truly sets the Discover Hospitality program apart is its proven track record of success and its growing appeal. With each intake, the number of participants continues to rise, a clear indicator of the program’s effectiveness and reputation. This steady influx of well-trained professionals is crucial to sustaining the rapid growth of the industry. As the Maldives strengthens its position as a premier global tourism destination, the availability of a well-trained local workforce ensures that the high standards expected by visitors are consistently met.

Furthermore, the program's focus on nurturing local talent helps reduce the industry’s reliance on foreign workers, ensuring that more Maldivians are empowered to take on key roles in the sector. This not only contributes to the nation’s economic growth but also preserves the distinct Maldivian cultural identity within the hospitality space. In essence, the Discover Hospitality program is a vital and transformative initiative that actively drives industry growth by preparing the next generation of skilled professionals who will shape the future of Maldivian tourism.

  1. In your opinion, what are the key factors that differentiate the Maldives as a premier tourist destination, and how does your experience and MATI contribute to maintaining and enhancing these qualities?

The Maldives is uniquely positioned as a premier tourist destination for several reasons. Firstly, it offers exceptional accessibility compared to other locations in the region, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking a tropical paradise. A standout feature is our "One Island, One Resort" concept, which offers an exclusive and private experience for each guest, with an entire island dedicated to a single resort. While other regions may have similar setups, nothing truly compares to the Maldives in its scale and allure.

Our natural beauty is another defining characteristic, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine ecosystems that are simply unmatched. These factors together create a destination that has captured the attention of travelers worldwide.

My experience, combined with the work of MATI, is instrumental in preserving and enhancing these exceptional qualities. At MATI, we advocate for sustainable tourism practices, support local businesses, and prioritize the protection of our environment and cultural heritage. This ensures that as the Maldives grows as a global tourism leader, it does so in a way that respects both its natural and cultural assets.

At Universal Resorts, we maintain a strong focus on professional excellence. We aim to build a highly skilled workforce that can operate our hotels at the same level as any leading international hotel chain. Our adherence to best practices and high standards across all operations ensures we deliver world-class service, which is vital to sustaining the Maldives’ reputation as a top-tier destination.

Looking ahead, we are dedicated to empowering the next generation. While I won’t always be at the helm, I am committed to preparing the young leaders of tomorrow to uphold and advance the legacy of excellence that has made the Maldives an iconic destination in global tourism.

  1. How have Universal Resorts in the Maldives responded to the growing emphasis on sustainability?

Universal Resorts in the Maldives has taken a proactive and comprehensive approach to sustainability, understanding that the preservation of our natural environment is crucial for the long-term vitality of both the tourism industry and the unique ecosystem of the Maldives. As stewards of this delicate paradise, it is imperative that we minimize our environmental impact while continuing to deliver the unparalleled luxury experiences our guests expect.

One of the key pillars of our sustainability strategy is the in-depth training and development of our team. This commitment ensures that sustainable practices are embedded in every facet of our operations—from the smallest daily tasks to broader, long-term strategies. By instilling a deep understanding of sustainability within our teams, we guarantee that our environmental principles are seamlessly integrated across all Universal Resorts properties.

Environmental conservation is at the core of our operational philosophy. Our infrastructure, including the seaplane complex, is designed with energy efficiency as a priority, and we’ve adopted cutting-edge fueling systems to minimize our ecological footprint. Every aspect of our resource management is meticulously planned to reduce environmental impact, aligning with our goal of creating a greener, more sustainable future for Maldivian tourism.

At Universal Resorts, we recognize that sustainability is not just a trend but a vital necessity for the future. Our ongoing efforts are focused on balancing innovation and expansion with eco-conscious operations, ensuring that we continue to uphold the world-class service and luxury our guests expect. More importantly, we aim to be a beacon of sustainable tourism that not only protects the environment but also uplifts local communities, safeguarding the pristine beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.

  1. Being the Chairman of MATI and Chairman of Universal Enterprises complement are both responsible huge roles, and how do you manage the responsibilities of both positions? Specially finding time for your own business as well as for the growth of the industry as whole?

Well, I’ve actually stepped back from the day-to-day operations at Universal Enterprises. A younger, more dynamic team has now taken the helm. This team is not only highly capable but also brings a fresh, modern perspective that’s essential for staying competitive in today’s fast-evolving market.

The transition has been seamless because many of the current leaders have been with the company for over a decade, some even 15 or 20 years. They’ve grown alongside Universal Enterprises and have an intimate understanding of the industry. This depth of experience is critical in managing a company of our scale, particularly in a market as prominent as Maldivian tourism.

Of course, I’m still involved in strategic decisions at Universal Enterprises and provide guidance when necessary. But by empowering the next generation of leadership within the company, I’ve been able to dedicate more time and energy to MATI. This way, I can contribute both to the continued success of Universal Enterprises and the broader development of the Maldivian tourism industry. It’s all about finding that balance.

  1. Given your multifaceted leadership, what guidance would you extend to emerging leaders in the dynamic landscape of the Maldives' tourism industry, and which important practice, that has been lost over time, do you believe should still be preserved?

Having dedicated decades to the Maldivian tourism industry through my roles with Universal Enterprises and as Chairman of MATI, I have witnessed profound transformations and expansion. My foremost advice to emerging leaders is to cultivate adaptability and a relentless commitment to learning. In this dynamic industry, what proves successful today may be obsolete tomorrow. It's imperative to stay informed, embrace innovation, and continuously evolve strategies to meet ever-changing demands.

One crucial principle that has been fundamental in my journey is the value of experience and long-term dedication. At our company, we have always cherished staff members who have been with us for extended periods—some for 10, 15, or even 20 years. These individuals not only grow within the organization but also develop a deep, intuitive understanding of the tourism landscape. In today’s fast-paced world, where instant results are often prioritized, the importance of accumulated knowledge and loyalty is sometimes forgotten. Yet, it is precisely this wealth of experience that equips leaders to navigate challenges and secure lasting success.

Another critical aspect I urge emerging leaders to prioritize is sustainability. As the industry expands, it is essential to remain vigilant about protecting the natural environment, which serves as the lifeblood of Maldivian tourism. Future leaders must champion sustainability, ensuring that growth never compromises the preservation of our unique surroundings.

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