The Government of the Maldives has condemned the participation of Mariyam Shainaa Naseem, a 21-year-old Maldivian model, in the Miss Universe 2024 pageant, calling it “against Islamic values.” In an official statement issued by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, the government declared that it "condemns, rejects, and does not endorse" any Maldivians taking part in competitions that are "contrary to Maldivian cultural and Islamic values." The statement also emphasized the government’s intention to uphold Sharia principles and align governance with Islamic values.

Shainaa, who has already arrived in Mexico, where this year’s Miss Universe competition is scheduled, was selected to represent the Maldives. Her participation has led to a divide in public opinion within the country, with some citizens supporting her international representation and others voicing strong opposition. Following the government’s condemnation, several Islamic scholars, backed by the administration, took to social media to criticize Shainaa, with some accusations escalating to harassment.

Conversely, members of liberal-minded opposition parties have voiced their support for Shainaa, highlighting her participation as an opportunity for international representation and individual expression. Critics of the government’s stance, including prominent voices from civil society, have also pointed out what they see as a double standard, pointing to recent government-endorsed bodybuilding events like the Mr. Maldives competition, where the Health Minister attended as the chief guest. These critics argue that the selective endorsement of male bodybuilding, while rejecting female representation in Miss Universe, reflects a gendered inconsistency in applying Islamic principles and values.

This controversy over Shainaa’s participation has brought to light the challenges and complexities of navigating modern representation and tradition, as the government faces both domestic and international scrutiny over its stance. As Shainaa continues with her preparations for the competition, the discourse in the Maldives over women's representation and freedom of expression remains a contentious issue.