A biography of Ahmed Adam (Hickory), the Maldives' first marine engineer, has been released in recognition of his historic contributions to the country's development over the past century.
Titled Manager, the book takes its name from the title by which Ahmed Adam was known after becoming manager of the Electricity Department in the 1960s.
The biography was launched by former Home Minister Abdulla Kamaluddin at a small ceremony held at Ahmed Adam's residence yesterday.
The book has been published in both Dhivehi and English editions. The publisher has not disclosed the author's identity.
The publisher said the book would be distributed free of charge to those interested in obtaining a copy from ONHAND The Personalized centre in Male'.
Ahmed Adam was among those brought to Male' Dhaalu atoll Maaenboodhoo under a government initiative during the presidency of Mohamed Amin Didi to provide students from the islands with educational opportunities.
After completing his studies at Majeedhiyya School, he travelled to Sri Lanka before returning to Maldives. He began his career as a junior engineer aboard the government cargo vessel 'Maldives Star' before pursuing further studies in marine engineering in the United Kingdom.
He later became Manager of the Electricity Department, where he introduced significant improvements to Male's electricity infrastructure, including replacing electrical wiring along the streets.
Ahmed Adam also pioneered the installation of engines in traditional Maldivian fishing boats. Despite objections from a foreign consultant who argued that the boats' designs made them unsuitable for engines, he demonstrated that the modifications were possible.
Fishermen and boat owners initially feared that engine noise would drive fish away. To address their concerns, Ahmed Adam conducted a trial voyage with an engine-powered boat, eventually winning their confidence.
Another notable achievement was his role in installing the antenna for Television Maldives, despite the site being located on recently reclaimed, unstable ground. At a time when cranes were unavailable, he carried out the work using a cantilever system and scaffolding.
During the British era, he also undertook a free dive using an early diving helmet to inspect an underwater cable connecting Malé and Hulhulé after it developed a fault. Scuba diving equipment was not available at the time.
His efforts to refloat the cargo vessel 'City of Victoria', which ran aground near Lhaviyani atoll Dhiffushimaadhoo, were also recognized. The vessel was carrying drums of asphalt intended for road surfacing works in Hulhule'. The operation attracted coverage in British newspapers.
Ahmed Adam was also the first Managing Director of the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). During his tenure, he helped establish Yamaha service centres across the atolls to maintain and repair boat engines.
He also oversaw the construction of a slipway in Kaafu Atoll for loading, unloading and repairing boats and vessels. In addition, he established the Vocational Training Centre (VTC), providing young people with vocational skills and training to develop a new generation of skilled technicians and engineers.
He also played an important role in the development of the Maldives' tourism industry, contributing to resort construction and serving as the first manager of Bandos Island Resort.
In recognition of his contributions, the government awarded him the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI) in 2019. He has also received the National Award of Honour and the Minivan 25 Award.
