Damas Solih and Moosa Anwar Recognised for Exceptional Contributions to Maldives’ Economy and Health Sector

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (ODRMD) on Mohamed Solih (Damas Solih) in recognition of his significant contributions to the development and advancement of the Maldivian economy, and the Highest Honour for Service to the Maldives Health Sector Medal on Moosa Anwar this morning at the Maldives Centre for Social Education.

Solih Recognised for Pioneering Roles Across Tourism, Trade, and Health Sectors

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Muleege Dynasty (ODRMD) on Mohamed Solih (Damas Solih) in recognition of his significant contributions to the development and advancement of the Maldivian economy, and the Highest Honour for Service to the Maldives Health Sector Medal on Moosa Anwar this morning at the Maldives Centre for Social Education.

Solih Recognised for Pioneering Roles Across Tourism, Trade, and Health Sectors

Solih has played a pivotal role across multiple sectors of the Maldivian economy. He was instrumental in the early growth of the country’s tourism industry, serving as the first Managing Director of the Maldives Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and helping establish Herethere Resort in Addu Atoll. His efforts were central to positioning the Maldives as a premier tourist destination.

Beyond tourism, Solih has contributed to wholesale and retail trade, real estate, and business services. His ventures include large-scale trading of goods, real estate and interior design services, cargo ship operations, the import and sale of Yanmar engines, technologically integrated grouper and lobster fisheries, and early internet business services. He has also served as President of the Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI).

In the health sector, Solih founded Medica Hospital, providing modern healthcare services. He has also served on various state boards and committees during the administration of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and held the post of Honorary Consul for the Thai Honorary Consulate in the Maldives for ten years, receiving the Medal of Civilian Honours from the King of Thailand.

Solih’s achievements have been recognised previously, including the National Award of Honour in 2022, the President’s Tourism Gold Award on the 50th anniversary of the industry, and a special award from President Muizzu for strengthening business relations between the Maldives and Singapore.

Moosa Anwar Awarded for Key Role in Developing Maldives’ Health Services

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has presented the Highest Honour for Service to the Maldives Health Sector Medal to Moosa Anwar at the official Republic Day ceremony held this morning at the Maldives Centre for Social Education.

Originally from Meedhoo in Addu Atoll, Moosa Anwar began his career as an interpreter at the Regional Medical Centre in Gan during the British protectorate. He trained in medical work while serving there, contributing to dental care and surgical theatre operations, and received the AOC Commendation from the Royal Air Force Gan in 1975 for his service.

Following the British departure from Gan, he moved to Malé in 1977 at the request of President Ibrahim Nasir, joining the public service as a Practical Nurse Instructor at the Allied Health Services Training Centre while also working as a dentist at the Central Hospital. He furthered his education in the United Kingdom in 1979 and returned to serve as a tutor, later becoming Assistant Director and Deputy Director of the Centre.

Anwar went on to hold several senior positions at the Ministry of Health, playing a key role in establishing regional hospitals across the atolls. He was instrumental in improving thalassaemia treatment, establishing the National Thalassaemia Centre, and supporting the Drug Rehabilitation Centre and the Home for People with Special Needs in K. Guraidhoo. He also contributed to the transition of services to Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital and strengthened operations at the Maldives Food and Drug Authority.

Moosa Anwar dedicated over 40 years to the Maldivian health sector, including more than 30 years in public service, before retiring on 23 July 2009.

131 Recipients Recognised for Exceptional Accomplishments and Service

During the Republic Day ceremony, President Muizzu also presented the National Award for Special Achievement to 34 recipients. The award recognises individuals with exceptional accomplishments in knowledge, skills, and creativity, including eight individuals who achieved qualifications above Level 10 on the Maldives National Qualifications Framework, 23 who attained top positions in Levels 7, 8, or 9, and two winners of international exhibitions or competitions.

President Dr @MMuizzu confers the President’s Award for Special Achievement upon 33 individuals, in recognition of their distinguished accomplishments in the academic field. The recipients include those who attained the highest distinction in Level 7, 8, or 9 academic programmes,… pic.twitter.com/LvkCT4lc24

— The President’s Office (@presidencymv) November 11, 2025

Additionally, President  Muizzu awarded badges, shields, and certificates of honour to 97 individuals in recognition of their long-standing service to the nation.