Media Council: Zahir is an example to today’s journalists

Maldives Media Council (MMC) has said that the hard work of Mohamed Zahir Naseer – who was conferred Most Honorable Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzudheen, Nishaan Izzuddeen Izzathuge Verikan – in the field of journalism was an example to today’s journalists.

MMC released a statement on Wednesday in which the council commended Zahir’s contribution to the field of journalism.

Zahir, 87, passed away in his home at dawn, on Wednesday, after a long spell of illness.

MMC said that Zahir’s tireless hard work in the field of journalism, and his well-written articles and reports were examples to today’s journalists.

Zahir was described as one of the most influential figures that rose up with the birth of golden age of journalism in the country. And that his death felt like the end of that golden era.

He was also described as the person who led the rise of journalism, setting example for other aspiring journalists with his professionalism and talent.

“Mohamed Zahir Naseer, who achieved the golden pen of journalism, was the brightest lantern that provided unrelenting light to Maldivian journalism,” read the statement.

MMC noted that Zahir started serving the journalism industry with the birth of the first newspaper in Maldives – “Sarukaaruge Khabaru”. And that is death was an irreplaceable loss at a time when the journalism industry in the country was nearing its golden jubilee.

He was awarded National Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to journalism by MMC on May 3.

President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has ordered for the national flag to fly half-mast on Thursday with his death.