Hussain Afeef, widely known as Champa Afeef, has been appointed Chairman of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI).

The appointment was confirmed during the association’s 36th Annual General Meeting held on Saturday at Kurumba Maldives.

The position had remained vacant since the passing of former Chairman M. U. Manik on August 30 last year.

Manik, who served as Chairman of Universal Enterprises, led MATI until his death following a period of illness.

Champa Afeef is a prominent shareholder of Champa Brothers and is regarded as one of the pioneers of the Maldivian tourism industry.

His appointment comes at a time when the tourism sector continues to play a central role in the country’s economic performance.

During the Annual General Meeting, MATI also elected a new Executive Committee to guide the association’s work.

MATI serves as the primary representative body for resort operators in the Maldives, advocating for industry interests and contributing to tourism policy discussions.