MATATO CEO Aminath Suzan Resigns from MATAO After a Transformative Tenure
- MOG Team
- Sep 9
- 2 min read
The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has announced a leadership change as Aminath Suzan (CEO) resigns from MATATO. This MATATO CEO Aminath Suzan resignation marks the end of a tenure defined by innovation, inclusivity, and international recognition, leaving a lasting impact on the Maldivian travel industry.
During her leadership, Suzan spearheaded several initiatives that broadened MATATO’s visibility and influence:
Welcome India Roadshow connecting Maldivian operators with South Asia.
The first Women’s Edition of the Maldives Travel Conference.
New platforms including MATATO Talks, the Gadha Chef challenge, and the Ramadan Quiz.
A refreshed MATATO logo, upgraded website, and new digital tools.
Her leadership culminated in MATATO receiving the PATA Special Award, boosting the association’s global reputation.
Before joining MATATO in 2022, Suzan worked across destination marketing, corporate communications, and event management in the Maldives. She was actively involved in travel roadshows, international partnerships, and industry promotions, where she developed a reputation for raising the profile of Maldivian operators abroad.
Her appointment as MATATO CEO was seen as a move to professionalize the association’s leadership and ensure broader international recognition.
Suzan’s tenure was not without criticism. Some stakeholders questioned:
The allocation of resources to high-profile events.
Her management style, described as bold but sometimes divisive.
Public disputes with rival associations and occasional social media missteps.
In addition, her personal connections attracted attention. Suzan is married to an executive at the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), an organization previously mired in a major corruption scandal. While she was not implicated in that case, the association fueled debate within the tourism community about conflicts of interest and transparency.
Supporters, however, argue these controversies reflected her willingness to challenge norms in a male-dominated sector and to keep MATATO at the forefront of industry debates.
In a farewell note shared on Facebook, Suzan wrote:
“Thank you so much MATATO – PATA Maldives Chapter for the great opportunity. I enjoyed my time and appreciate the support of the Board, especially President Abdulla Ghiyas.”
She added humorously:
“I’ve resigned to take a much-needed break and focus on personal projects. And don’t call me for coffee cos I’m still busy!”
MATATO praised Suzan’s tenure as a defining era and credited her with laying the groundwork for future growth. As the association prepares to transition to new leadership, her legacy of innovation, empowerment, and visibility will remain a cornerstone for the Maldivian tourism industry.
Comments