President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (O.D.R.I.) upon Hussain Afeef, recipient of Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (O.D.R.M.D). The honour was presented at the official Independence Day ceremony held this morning.

Hussain Afeef is recognised as one of the pioneers of tourism in the Maldives and among the foremost figures responsible for introducing and developing the country's tourism industry. Throughout his distinguished career, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to national service, particularly through his sustained contributions to the growth and transformation of Maldivian tourism.

Beginning his career in the tourism industry at its inception, Afeef gained experience across every level of the sector, from working in resort kitchens and tour operations to holding senior management positions. His leadership played a defining role in establishing high standards of hospitality and professionalism within the Maldivian tourism industry.

Afeef has also been instrumental in driving innovation in sustainable tourism. Under his leadership, the world's first fully solar-powered resort, developed on Gasfinolhu in Kaafu Atoll, commenced operations in 2014, marking a significant milestone for environmentally sustainable tourism in the Maldives. He has also made substantial contributions to promoting the Maldives as a premier tourist destination across European and international markets.

A founding member of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), Afeef has served the association in several senior leadership positions, including as Vice Chairman and Chairman. He continues to serve as Chairman, providing strategic leadership to the country's tourism industry.

Beyond tourism, Afeef has made significant contributions as an entrepreneur across the hospitality, aviation, banking and healthcare sectors. He played a leading role in the development of Addu International Airport and was instrumental in establishing Tree Top Hospital, a 210-bed tertiary healthcare facility that introduced a range of advanced medical services previously unavailable in the Maldives, including the country's first fertility clinic.

Through the Ali Fulhu Thuthu Foundation, established in honour of his late father, Afeef has also led numerous corporate social responsibility initiatives and community development projects. The Foundation has enabled many young Maldivians to pursue their education and has supported the development of water supply and sewerage systems in several inhabited islands. He also played a key role in the establishment of the Commercial Bank of Maldives and served as Chairman of its Board of Directors, contributing to the expansion of financial services for Maldivian businesses.

Over the course of his career, Afeef has received numerous national and international honours in recognition of his outstanding contributions to tourism and national development. He was awarded the Public Service Medal in Tourism in 1989 and the Public Service Honour in Tourism in 2004. On 16 September 2010, he was conferred the title of State Dignitary in recognition of his long and dedicated service to the State. In 2013, on Independence Day, he was awarded the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (O.D.R.M.D).