Honoree of the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI), Hassan Sobir has passed away.

The former Cabinet Minister passed away following an illness. RaajjeMV understands that Sobir died on Monday while undergoing treatment at Tree Top Hospital in Hulhumalé.

Sobir was a respected public servant who made significant contributions to the Maldives across several key sectors, including tourism, agriculture, and fisheries. Over the course of his career, he played a pivotal role in planning and implementing national development projects and also served the country in various foreign affairs capacities.

Sobir held senior positions in the government of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. He was appointed Minister of Fisheries in 1993 and later served as Minister of Tourism in 1998, during a period of major policy development and sectoral growth in the country.

His passing marks the loss of a seasoned statesman whose work left a lasting impact on the Maldives' social and economic landscape. Further details regarding funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.

In a distinguished career spanning more than 37 years, Hassan Sobir held numerous senior roles in government and diplomacy, leaving a lasting legacy in the service of the Maldivian state.

Sobir returned to the Cabinet in 2003 as Minister of Tourism under President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, having previously held the same portfolio in 1998. In addition to his ministerial duties, he served as a member of the People’s Majlis, representing Alif Alif Atoll, where he was known for his commitment to regional development and national progress.

His service extended beyond domestic politics. In March 2019, Sobir was appointed Maldivian Ambassador to the European Union by then-President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, marking the beginning of his diplomatic chapter on the international stage. Later, in May 2022, he was appointed as the Maldives’ Ambassador to Japan, a position he held until his passing.

In recognition of his decades of service, Sobir was recently honored with the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin, one of the highest national awards, by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during the 60th Independence Day celebrations, a testament to his enduring contribution to the nation.

Sobir's passing has been met with deep sorrow across the political and diplomatic community, as colleagues and citizens alike remember him as a dedicated public servant, statesman, and advocate for the Maldives' growth on both the national and international stages.