Naseer was heavily involved in the formation of the MOC in 1979.

He then served as President for 23 years after the body became recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 1985, leading the Indian Ocean country's team on their Olympic debut at Seoul 1988.

The official "worked tirelessly developing sport in the Maldives," a statement on the Olympic Council of Asia explained, taking Maldivian sportsmen and women to compete in International sporting events for the first time in their history.

"As President and in an individual capacity, Mr. Naseer gave his maximum to the development and organisation of sport in Maldives," it was added.

Key achievements included the founding of the Naseer Sports Academy, later known as New Sports Academy, serving solely for the development of local sporting and sportsmanship. 

He opted not to stand in fresh elections in 2008 and was appointed honorary President of the organisation in 2011.

Naseer was awarded the National Award of Service in Sports in 1979 and later the National Award of Honour in Sport in 1992.

"The Maldives Olympic Committee along with the sporting family of Maldives sends its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Mohamed Zahir Naseer and pray for Jannat-al-firdaus on his soul. Amen," said a statement on the MOC Facebook page.

A statement was also given by Maldives President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, who spoke with his family by phone, and extended his condolences.

The Maldivian Flag was flown at half-mast as an observance of National mourning the day after news of his death broke late last month.