The country is mourning the passing of Universal Enterprises Chairman Mohamed Umar Manik (MU Manik) with hundreds taking part in his funeral prayers on Saturday.
MU Manik is one of the pioneers of the Maldives' tourism industry. He died at the age of 78 while undergoing medical treatment in Singapore's Mount Elizabeth Hospital.
He is survived by a wife and two children. His funeral prayers were held in Singapore and Male'.
In a post on X, President Mohamed Muizzu commended MU Manik's efforts to develop tourism in the Maldives.
Former President Mohamed Nasheed sent condolences to MU Manik's family and praised his commitment towards developing the country.
Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih highlighted MU Manik's 19 years of service to the Maldivian government.
Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail said MU Manik's visionary plans tranformed the country's economy.
Maamigili MP and tourism tycoon Qasim Ibrahim said MU Manik was an exemplary businessman and a close colleague.
Kurumba Maldives, a 30-room holiday island, was the first resort to be opened in the Maldives. The resort was developed under planning from MU Manik.
He also served as the Chairman of Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) for 10 years. He resigned in January 2024.
MU Manik received multiple national awards for his contribution to the Maldives' tourism industry.
