President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has expressed his condolences on the passing of Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), Chairman of Universal Enterprises and one of the pioneers of Maldivian tourism.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) a short while ago, President Muizzu stated that MU Maniku played a praiseworthy and significant role in making the Maldives a special tourism destination.

"I received the news of the passing of Mohamed Umar Maniku, one of the pioneers of Maldivian tourism and holder of the Nishan Muleeaage Sharafuge Izzai, with deep sadness. He has made praiseworthy efforts in the development and advancement of Maldivian tourism to this day. His hard work and role in making the Maldives a notable special destination for tourists on a global scale were immense. May Allah bestow His mercy upon the soul of the late Mohamed Umar Maniku and grant him eternal bliss in Paradise! May He grant patience to the bereaved family! Ameen," the President said in his X post.

MU Maniku passed away at 6:30 this morning at Mount Elizabeth Hospital in Singapore, while receiving treatment for his deteriorating health condition. He was 78 years old at the time of his passing.

The funeral prayer in absentia (Salat al-Gha'ib) for him will be held at the Islamic Centre after today's Asr prayer.