President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has extended condolences to the family of tourism pioneer Koligey Mohamed Umar Manik (MU Manik) on his passing this morning. 

MU Maniku passed away at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore this morning at the age of 78 while receiving treatment for a prolonged illness. 

In a post shared on X, President Muizzu stated that he had heard of the passing of one of the architects of Maldives' tourism with deep sadness. 

MU Maniku’s contributions to Maldives tourism deserve the highest recognition, the President affirmed. He stated that MU Manik had been instrumental in raising Maldives to its current level of being a world renowned premium holiday destination. 

MU Maniku is regarded as a national hero, and the government has recognised his significant contributions. In 2011, he was conferred the third highest state honor, Order of the Dignified Rule of Muleege Dynasty. He also received the National Award of Recognition in 1982, the National Award of Honour in 2002, and the Maldives Independence Silver Jubilee Award in 1990. He was further honoured as a distinguished national figure for his long and dedicated service to the state.

MU Maniku had been active in tourism since its earliest days. In 1971, he worked alongside industry pioneers Champa Hussain Afeef and “Masodi” Ahmed Naseem, together with Italian travel agent George Corbin, who first introduced tourists to the Maldives.

He was closely involved in organizing the first tourist group Corbin brought to the country in 1972 and later played a central role in developing the first resort, Kurumba Village, that same year. When the resort opened, MU Maniku managed its food and beverage operations, sourcing produce from Malé’s market and even cooking for guests. At the time, he was studying agriculture in East Pakistan while employed at the Ministry of Agriculture. He would complete his office work by early afternoon before heading to the resort.