The Chairman of Damas Company Pvt Ltd, Mr. Mohamed Salih, has been honoured with The President’s Tourism Gold Award in recognition of his contribution to the development of tourism in the Maldives. The award was conferred by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at the Tourism Golden Year Gala Evening, held at Kurumba Maldives on the evening of 3 October 2022.
Pictured above: Mr. Mohamed Salih receives the President’s Tourism Gold Award from President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Photo: The President’s Office, Maldives
Celebrating 50 years of Maldivian tourism
The Golden Year Gala was the final event hosted by the Ministry of Tourism to commemorate the 50th anniversary of tourism in the Maldives, and was held to recognise those who have contributed to the industry’s success over the past five decades. During the evening, the President conferred the award on 77 individuals, among them the Speaker of the People’s Majlis, former President Mohamed Nasheed and Vice President Faisal Naseem. First Lady Fazna Ahmed, senior government officials, tourism pioneers and leaders of the sector were also in attendance.
A pioneer of the industry
Mr. Salih was among the early entrants to the Maldives tourism sector. In the 1980s, he and his partners developed Lhohifushi Island Resort (presently Adaaran Select Hudhuranfushi), and he was subsequently involved in the development of Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Heritance Aarah and Varu by Atmosphere. As the managing director at the inception of the Maldives Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), he oversaw the development and opening of Herathera Island Resort in Addu. He also served as a member of the advisory council of the Maldives Tourism Promotion Board.
The President’s message
Speaking at the gala, President Solih said that the Maldivian tourism industry became world-renowned because the private sector was given full autonomy over its development, while the role of government was to design national policies that can be implemented through the legislative system. Reflecting on the lessons of 50 years, he highlighted the value of a cordial relationship between government and the private sector, and said that perseverance, hard work and determination make anything possible. He encouraged young Maldivians to build new industries that would benefit the country.
The President also thanked everyone who has helped promote the sector, from resort owners and operators, guesthouse operators, safari vessel and dive centre operators to travel agents, performing artists and tourism employees, crediting their efforts for the country’s economic success.
The entire Damas family congratulates our Chairman on this well-deserved national recognition of a lifetime devoted to the growth of Maldivian tourism.
Source: The President’s Office, Maldives, press release Ref: 2022-493, 3 October 2022. View the official photo gallery.