On September 29, 2025, the Tourism Marketing Management program hosted a guest lecture for the 2023 class of the "Sustainable Tourism" course. The lecture was delivered by Dr. Ismail Shaheer from the University of Otago, New Zealand.

The Maldives, one of the world's most popular tropical tourist destinations, is now taking sustainable tourism more seriously. As an archipelago vulnerable to the effects of climate change, the Maldives emphasizes the importance of environmental conservation in its tourism industry. The government is working with industry players to reduce the use of single-use plastics, protect coral reefs, and promote renewable energy in tourist resorts. Many accommodations now use solar panels, water recycling systems, and offer community-based tourism experiences to empower local residents.

In addition, tourists are encouraged to participate in environmentally friendly activities, such as eco diving, beach cleanups, and education about marine ecosystems. With these measures, the Maldives is striving to preserve its natural beauty while ensuring that its growing tourism industry remains sustainable and responsible for future generations.

Author: Adzra Nurthahira