International Maldives Travel Market (IMTM) concluded its second edition IMTM 2019 this Thursday. The fair was held from 26 I 27 June Farukolhufushi, Phase 2, Hulhumale’. It hosted 52 International buyers, representative of 18 different countries and 164 local accommodation providers participated as Trade visitors.
On 26 June 2019, IMTM began with the arrival of the Guest of Honour Former President and Speaker of Parliament Honourable Mohamed Nasheed. He was received with warm welcome and traditional dances of Ridhan Group.
The Opening Ceremony was commenced with the recitation of Quran by Ms. Anoofa Ali, followed by opening remarks from Managing Director, Ms. Shiuna Khalid and Mr. Abdulla Riffath, Managing Director of Astrobon; Main sponsor of IMTM 2019.
IMTM 2019 was launched by Honourable Mohamed Nasheed, followed by a speech addressing the event and how it benefits Maldivian tourism Industry. IMTM 2019 Mechandisers were also presented to the former president. After the opening Formar President visited all the booths and met International Buyers and Partner of IMTM 2019.
On the second day, Honourable Minister of Tourism, Mr.Ali Waheed visited IMTM 2019. Minister visited all the International Buyer Booth and met with Trade Visitors present at the venue.
Business Meetings
At the end of the opening ceremony scheduled meetings were held between International Buyers and Trade Visitor, which continued until the end of the event. The meeting were held full day on the second day of the event as well.
Sustainable Tourism Forum
This year IMTM had a new component added to IMTM Fair format; a Sustainable Tourism Forum. The forum was conducted under a partnership with Ms. Aishath Azaf, one of top sustainabity development consultant of Maldives. The Sustainable Tourism Forum was inaugrated by Ms. Akiko Fujii, Resident Representative of UNDP Maldives. On thee first day presentation were given by Ms.Ruth Frankline, Secrete Paradise and Ms.Fathimath Raia Musthafa, Sonevafushi.
On the second day presentations started with Ms.Shaha Hashim, Blue Marine foundation, Uk. Followed by Mr. Sebastiaan Brouwer, Resilient Island Foundation and Ms. Megan O’Berine, Six Sense Laamu. Both days after each presentation a penal discussion was conducted with the participants.
Entertainment
In IMTM2019, under CSR, Ridhan dance group showcased traditional and cultural performances. They performed variety of cultural dance styles like Boduberu, Badiya, Maafathi, Langiri and Thaara.
