The Maldivian government on Wednesday condemned the participation of a Maldivian model at the Miss Universe 2024, urging withdrawal from the pageant.

21-year-old Mariam Shaina Naseem, who won the 2022 Top Model Maldives is representing the Maldives at Miss Universe 2024, marking a historic first for the country. She also represented Maldives at the Top Model of the World competition held in Egypt last year.

Following the announcement, the government was heavily criticised by some for the participation in Miss Universe.

In response, the Youth Ministry issued a statement today refuting any and all reports that suggest that Maldives’ participation in the pageant has backing of the government.

The ministry said the government condemns such activities in the name of representing the Maldives, and urged those involved to withdraw from the pageant.

The ministry further said that the government will not involve a Maldivian in any such activities in the name of representing the Maldives.

This year's Miss Universe pageant will start on the 14th of next month. The final show will be held two days later. 130 countries are participating in this year's tournament.