State Dignitary Mr. Ali Umar Manik has passed away on Saturday evening, in Singapore. He was 80 years of age, at the time of his passing.
On receiving the news, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom extended his condolences to Mr. Ali Umar Manik’s son Dr. Mohammed Ali. The President, via telephone, noted that it was with deep sadness that he received the news of the late Ali Umar Manik’s passing. The President also highlighted the late Ali Umar Manik’s invaluable services to the nation, the Government and the people of Maldives.
Following the passing of Mr. Ali Umar Manik, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has declared that the National Flag be flown at half-mast, from 20th December 2015 till the end of 22nd December 2015.
State dignitary the late Ali Umar Manik began his employment in the Government on 13th July 1958 as Secretary to the Head of the Foreign Ambassador’s Office. He then served as the Special lawyer in the Prime Minister’s Office, the Trade Ambassador from the Maldivian Government, and the Minister of Shipping. He has served the Government for more than 50 years.
The late Ali Umar Manik headed the development of the Airport in Hulhule. In 1972 when Tourism was introduced to the Maldives, Mr. Ali Umar Manik was selected by President Ibrahim Nasir as a member of the special committee to promote Tourism. His services included the development of the communication network and communication services in Maldives and the inauguration of satellite communication services, telephone, telex and fax. Additionally, he contributed to the inauguration of the first television station in the Maldives.
During President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s presidency, the late Ali Umar Manik notably served as Special Advisor to the President for 26 years.
While the late Ali Umar Manik’s several contributions served to strengthen and bolster the Maldivian economy, his contributions in inaugurating the Maldivian Shipping line and training personnel in the field is particularly noteworthy. He introduced and managed Maldives Shipping Limited and brought notable changes to the Maldivian Shipping Industry. In 1979 he was awarded the Special Honorary Award for his exceptional contributions to the country in the field of Economics.
The late Ali Umar Manik was known for his philanthropy and his efforts to elevate personal and societal wellbeing; one of the most notable being his financial contributions to redevelop the infrastructure of the “Islaahiyya” built by the Government in Maafushi. In addition, he has built several schools and provided financial aid to others. In 1982 he received a special award for his philanthropic work. Additionally, he was awarded the “Aanmu Hidhumathuge Inaam – National Award of Recognition” at the Silver Jubilee of Independence.
The late Ali Umar Manik played a vital role in the implementation of several developmental efforts during President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s presidency. His contributions were significant in the conversion of the Airport to an International Airport, the building of Islamic Center, and the development of the trade harbor. Additionally, he actively participated in developing the Malé Water and Sewerage Company and the development of Hulhumale while acting as advisor to President on several issues of great import.