Visit Maldives has announced the appointment of British-Spanish actor Taz Skylar, star of Netflix’s global hit One Piece, as its newest Global Ambassador, strengthening efforts to position the Maldives as one of the world’s most desirable travel destinations.
Skylar, who plays Sanji, the Straw Hat Pirates’ charismatic chef in the live-action adaptation, will showcase the Maldives’ natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainable tourism initiatives during his tenure as ambassador. His influence is expected to elevate the destination’s visibility among global travelers, particularly younger audiences with strong ties to entertainment and social media.
Leveraging Global Influence
Netflix’s One Piece achieved record-breaking success upon release, becoming the most-watched show in 84 countries, surpassing titles like Wednesday and Stranger Things. The series has been hailed as one of the best live-action anime adaptations, praised for breaking the long-standing stigma surrounding anime-to-live-action projects.
With more than 1.8 million Instagram followers and engagement rates averaging 45,000 likes and 300 comments per post, Skylar commands a dynamic global audience. His appointment offers Visit Maldives a powerful storytelling platform to reach new markets and reinforce the Maldives’ reputation as a premium, adventure-rich, and culturally vibrant destination.
Ambassadorial Activities in the Maldives
As part of his role, Skylar will visit the Maldives from 27 August to 15 September 2025 to participate in a destination marketing project. The campaign will spotlight the adventurous and culinary experiences the islands offer, connecting with international travelers through authentic and relatable narratives.
Strengthening Destination Branding
Visit Maldives’ Global Ambassadorship Program is designed to amplify the nation’s profile through collaborations with influential international figures. Its objectives include:
- Promoting the Maldives to diverse global audiences across demographics.
- Leveraging high-profile personalities to make the Maldives one of the most talked-about destinations worldwide.
- Showcasing authentic Maldivian culture and lifestyle through first-hand ambassador experiences.
- Enhancing visibility across families, youth, and adventure seekers through trusted voices.
- Bolstering the Maldives’ tourism branding with credible advocates.
Building on Global Awareness
Visit Maldives has consistently sought innovative strategies to expand its global reach, particularly by engaging internationally recognised figures who can represent the Maldives with authenticity, credibility, and wide-reaching influence. The partnership with Skylar marks another significant step in aligning the Maldives with global entertainment and lifestyle narratives, ensuring the nation remains at the forefront of international tourism marketing.
