The
8th Edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024 culminated in a
vibrant celebration of excellence in the hospitality industry at the Gala &
Awards ceremony held at Aloft Kathmandu Thamel on September 20, 2024.
Today
on October 20, 2024, SATA presented the prestigious recognition to Maldivian
tourism pioneers, Mr. Mohamed Moosa and Mr. Hussain Afeef, who were honored
with the "Face of South Asia" awards for their extraordinary
contributions to the growth and development of the tourism sector during a
special ceremony held at Maldives.
During
the event, Mr. Suraj Khan, Vice President of SATA, presented the "Face of
South Asia" awards, beginning with the recognition of Mr. Mohamed Moosa ,
Chairman of Champa Brothers. A trailblazer in the Maldivian tourism industry,
Mr. Moosa’s profound understanding of the evolving needs of tourists and his
passion for hospitality have cemented his status as an iconic figure in the
Maldives. Under his leadership, Champa Brothers has grown into a major player
in the tourism and hospitality sectors, both in the Maldives and
internationally. His business portfolio spans industries such as agriculture,
fisheries, real estate, water desalination, and financial services, making him
a key figure in the country's economic growth. Mr. Moosa has also received
special presidential recognition for his environmental conservation efforts in
the Maldives.
Mr.
Hussain Afeef, Chairman of Crown Company, was honored for his pivotal role in
the development of the tourism industry. As one of the pioneers of Maldivian
tourism, Mr.Afeef's contributions span over 5 decades of leadership in the
industry, with interests in multiple resorts and other international ventures.
He is a key shareholder in KASA Holdings, which is involved in the development
of Addu International Airport, and Champa Brothers, one of the largest
operators in the Maldivian tourism sector. His involvement with the government
includes serving on the Economic Advisory Council to the President of the
Maldives and holding the position of Vice Chairman of the Maldives Association
of Tourism Industry (MATI).
This
year, SATA also posthumously honored other trailblazers from South Asia,
including Late Ms. Ambica Shrestha and Mr. Karna Sakya from Nepal, and Mr. Md
Shakawath Hossain from Bangladesh. These awards recognized their significant
contributions to the tourism industries in their respective countries, further
highlighting SATA’s role in celebrating the people who have shaped the tourism
landscape across the region.
The
event concluded with heartfelt congratulations to both Mr. Mohamed Moosa and
Mr. Hussain Afeef, with attendees acknowledging their legacy and continued
contributions to the Maldivian tourism industry. SATA extends its warmest
congratulations to all honorees and looks forward to further fostering
excellence in South Asian hospitality.