NHGAM launches Southeast Asia roadshow in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur
The National Hotels and Guesthouse Association of Maldives (NHGAM), in collaboration with Visit Maldives and the Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), has announced the launch of the ‘I AM Maldives Southeast Asia Roadshow’, a trade mission aimed at promoting Maldivian tourism in two key Asian markets.
The roadshow is scheduled to take place in Hong Kong on 13 April and in Kuala Lumpur on 15 April 2026.
A total of 20 companies and more than 50 participants, representing guesthouses, resorts, hotels and travel agencies, are expected to take part in the delegation. More than 120 travel trade professionals from across the two cities, including tour operators, travel agents and other industry decision-makers, are also expected to attend.
Ahmed Waheed, vice president of NHGAM, said Southeast Asia held strong potential for the Maldives and required renewed focus. He said the roadshow reflected efforts to rebuild the Maldives’ presence in the region and form partnerships needed to support sustainable growth.
NHGAM said Greater China, including Hong Kong, recorded 706,033 arrivals to the Maldives in 2025, representing a 12.1% increase compared with 2024, making it the top source market. Malaysia recorded 24,847 visitors, up 25.2% from 19,846 the previous year. Southeast Asia as a whole contributed 72,128 visitors, reflecting 6% growth and accounting for 3.2% of total arrivals.
Abdulla Nasheed, president of NHGAM, said the roadshow marked an important step in promoting local island tourism in international markets. He said Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur presented opportunities for the local island tourism sector, and that the initiative aimed to connect guesthouse operators and tourism businesses with these markets to create growth opportunities for NHGAM members.
Ibrahim Shiury, chief executive officer and managing director of Visit Maldives, said Hong Kong and Malaysia were important and high-potential markets for the Maldives. He said the roadshow was a strategic move to strengthen the Maldives’ presence in both markets and showcase the destination’s offerings to a wider audience.
NHGAM said the ‘I AM Maldives Southeast Asia Roadshow’ formed part of its wider programme of international market activities planned for 2026. It said the events in Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur marked the start of a broader push into Asian travel markets, with the aim of keeping the Maldives visible among travel trade partners and travellers in the region.
