Maldives successfully hosts AYIMUN conference, marking the first time the prestigious event has been held in the country

The Maldives has successfully hosted the Asia Youth International Model United Nations (AYIMUN) conference, marking the first time the prestigious event has been held in the country.

The event was organized by the International Global Network, which has previously hosted similar conferences in countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam. The conference took place from the 15th to the 17th of this month at Kurumba Maldives resort.

While the conference, which simulated United Nations debates and resolution-drafting processes, was open to international students, 63 Maldivian students were among the participants.

Speaking to RaajjeTV regarding the initiative, Mohamed Saleem, the UN Representative to the Maldives, stated that efforts over the past year have focused on securing a hosting opportunity for this conference in the Maldives. He noted that the International Global Network has been holding these conferences across various Asian countries over the last decade. He further explained that following a year of extensive efforts, a delegation from the organization visited the Maldives to conduct a feasibility study. The successful bid to host the event was finalized after rigorous coordination with government line ministries, the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), and resort executives.

Furthermore, it was noted that the significant support provided by Kurumba Maldives was instrumental in the success of this initiative. The expansion of such opportunities and the hosting of these conferences in the Maldives are expected to provide a substantial boost to the nation's economy.

May marks the peak of the Maldives' tourism low season. Consequently, we have decided to hold this conference annually during this month, a decision that has now been officially announced. This conference has already opened up significant new opportunities for Maldivian youth, and I am confident that this inaugural step will be a great success. The Maldives has now successfully secured the hosting of the Maldives United Nations Conference. This initiative provides Maldivian students with the opportunity to participate at a much lower cost. Previously, when such events were held abroad, students had to bear the heavy financial burden of expensive airfare and hotel accommodations. By hosting it here, students can now participate from within their own country, simply taking a morning ferry to attend the sessions.

Mohamed Saleem, Representative of MUN in the Maldives

Saleem stated that students from Villa International High School, Ghiyasuddin International School, Ahmadhiyya International School, and Billabong High International School, as well as several independent participants, took part in the conference. He noted that this year’s primary themes focused on the UNHRC and the WHO, providing a platform for students to discuss and deliberate on the challenges within these sectors. Saleem further highlighted that the students submitted well-researched position papers representing their assigned countries, demonstrating that the Maldivian participants had conducted extensive research to effectively represent various foreign nations.

Therefore, I believe this presents an exceptional opportunity for the Maldives' younger generation to enter the field of diplomacy. This foundation is being built for a generation of talented youth who are proficient in English, well-versed in international diplomacy, and possess the patience and skill required for negotiation. The primary benefit for these students is the intellectual sharpening they experience; they gain a wealth of knowledge and develop the ability to speak with substance. They will become skilled negotiators, mastering the principles and protocols of international discourse. The Maldives maintains numerous diplomatic missions across the globe, which require a significant workforce. Many of the diplomats currently serving were cultivated during the era of Fathulla Jameel. As the Maldives transitions into a new era, it is this younger generation that will step forward to lead the nation's diplomatic efforts.

Mohamed Saleem, Representative of MUN in the Maldives

Saleem stated that preparations are currently underway to attract as many international students as possible to the conference scheduled to be held in the Maldives next year. He noted that extensive promotional efforts, including the production of videos and photographs, will be carried out to market the event. He further expressed confidence that, God willing, the upcoming International Model United Nations (IMUN) conference in the Maldives will see significant participation from students across the globe.

International Global Network is an Indonesian-based organization currently celebrating its tenth anniversary. Over the past decade, the network has reached more than 1.8 million individuals through its activities across Asia and around the globe. It has established itself as one of the world's most influential teams in its field. The organization is particularly renowned for its Model United Nations programs, including Asia World Model United Nations. These conferences have gained significant popularity in the Maldives, especially among the student community. In the current session alone, 63 students from the Maldives are participating in the conference.

Hosting conferences of this nature will provide Maldivian students with valuable skills and enhance the Maldives' international profile.