Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), an important figure in the development and expansion of the Maldives tourism sector, has passed away in Singapore. He died on Saturday while in critical condition at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, where he had been undergoing medical care for approximately a month.

Maniku was a member of the team that launched Kurumba Maldives in 1972, the first resort in the nation, often considered the beginning of the contemporary tourism sector in the Maldives.

Maniku, as Chairman and a major shareholder of Universal Enterprises/Universal Resorts, managed the growth of a collection that features properties like Kurumba, Kuramathi, Baros, Velassaru, Kandolhu, Milaidhoo, and Huvafen Fushi.

In addition to the Maldives, he held the position of Chairman at Mahaweli Reach Hotels PLC in Sri Lanka starting in 2012, highlighting the group's international hospitality ventures.

Maniku led the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), established in 1982 to advocate for resort owners and operators while interacting with the government on policies and sector growth. With his guidance, MATI emerged as a vital platform for coordination and conversation within the industry.