Hassan Sobir, Who Helped Transform Maldives’ Key Sectors, Dies; President Muizzu Calls It a ‘Profound Loss’

Hassan Sobir, a senior Maldivian statesman whose career in public service spanned nearly four decades and helped shape the country’s tourism, fisheries, agriculture, and foreign affairs, died Monday morning at Tree Top Hospital in Hulhumalé. Sobir, a recent recipient of the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin, the Maldives’ highest civilian honour, was serving as the Maldives’ ambassador to Japan at the time of his death.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu called Sobir’s passing a profound loss to the nation. In a statement posted on social media, he praised Sobir’s enduring contributions to national development and credited him with strengthening the country’s diplomatic and economic foundations. Among his achievements, the president noted Sobir’s leadership across key sectors and his role in advancing major initiatives that contributed to the Maldives’ progress.

Sobir entered public service on 7 February 1973 and remained in government for more than 38 years, holding a range of ministerial posts. His longest tenure was in the tourism sector, where he was recognised for delivering what officials described as “constructive services” that supported the industry’s expansion. His influence extended to fisheries and agriculture, where he oversaw the establishment of a 1,500-ton fish freezing facility in Kooddoo, oversaw the nationwide ‘one million trees’ programme, and initiated the leasing of uninhabited islands for agricultural development.

His diplomatic career included service as ambassador to several countries, where he worked to strengthen the Maldives’ foreign relations and broaden its international engagement.

On Sunday, Sobir was awarded the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI), the highest honour conferred by the Maldivian state. The award was announced during the official Independence Day reception, though Sobir was unable to attend the ceremony due to medical treatment.

Following his death, the national flag will be flown at half-mast from 29th July for upto 3 days. President Muizzu offered prayers for Sobir’s peace and extended condolences to his family.