On Monday, Ministry of Tourism of the Maldives published a circular advising all tourist facilities in the country to strengthen safety protocols in their properties. The circular was released in light of the approaching peak season, for which Maldives is a popular hotspot among travelers.
The circular urged all tourist facilities to be vigilant in the safety protocols, particularly in regards to swimming snorkelling, diving and other water-based activities. The publication also stated that emergency action plans formulated and adopted by tourist establishments must be reviewed to ensure efficient and effective implementation in case such a circumstance arose.
Moreover, the circular instructed all facilities to carry out a general safety briefing during check-in procedures to allow guests to be updated on the latest information. Additionally, it stated that a briefing must always be given to guests before commencing any water-based activities for further confirmation of their safety. Likewise, the ministry also highlighted on conducting regular trainings and awareness sessions for staff associated in watersports activities and reminded water sports centers to be extra cautious during the high-demand season.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Tourism called on all tourist facilities to have an Emergency Focal Point for both guests and staff and asked the facilities to share their name, designation and contact number with the ministry. This is done in order to ensure that the Ministry remains up to date with latest date records.