President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised that the outstanding efforts and contributions of the late Mohamed Umar Manik, recipient of the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (ODRMD), were pivotal in establishing the Maldives as a world-renowned tourist destination.
In a post on X following Umar Manik's passing, the President extended his condolences, expressing deep sorrow at the loss. He acknowledged the late Umar Manik’s invaluable role in shaping the nation’s tourism industry and prayed for strength for his bereaved family and eternal peace for his soul.
Mohamed Umar Manik (ODRMD), aged 78, passed away this morning at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore.
As Chairman of Universal Enterprises Pvt Ltd, one of the Maldives’ leading tourism companies, Umar Manik was instrumental in launching the first German Condor Airlines flights to the country. His tireless efforts helped transform the Maldives into a tourist-friendly destination and laid the foundation for the high-quality service standards that define Maldivian resorts today.
Beyond tourism, Umar Manik dedicated over 19 years to public service, beginning on 5 June 1971. He served as Deputy Minister of Agriculture and managed the Ministry before retiring from government service on 31 December 1990. He subsequently contributed as a Board Member of the Maldives Monetary Authority, and as Chairman of Island Aviation Services Limited and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL).
His distinguished service and achievements have been widely recognised. Umar Manik received the National Award of Recognition in 1982, the National Award of Honour in 2002, and the National Award for Public Service, awarded on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of the Maldives Independence. On 26 July 2011, he was conferred the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (ODRMD). During the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Maldivian tourism, he was also presented with the President’s Tourism Gold Award, in recognition of his lifetime contributions to the sector.