The President’s Tourism Gold Awards have been conferred to 77 recipients who have contributed to the country’s tourism industry in various ways over the past 50 years. The awards were presented by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at the Tourism Golden Year Gala Evening held at Kurumba Maldives to mark the 50th anniversary of the Maldivian tourism industry.
During the ceremony, President Solih conferred the prestigious award to those who have worked in various ways to bring about the golden age of tourism. The award was presented to the three pioneers Mohamed Umar Manik, Hussain Afeef, and Ahmed Naseem. The award was also conferred to Speaker of the Parliament Mohamed Nasheed and Vice President Faisal Naseem for their contribution to the development of tourism under their leadership. The award was also presented in recognition of the efforts of former President Ibrahim Nasir to launch tourism in the Maldives and the efforts of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to make tourism in the Maldives an international brand.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Tourism Abdulla Mausoom said there is talented youth in the Maldives who can take tourism very far with innovative ideas. Therefore, he said the future of tourism is very promising.
The award was presented to individuals in private associations, domestic and foreign airlines, and telecommunications service providers.