Minister Thoriq Cites Progress on Lhaviyani and Laamu Protected Areas, in Line With President's Pledge

The government is progressing with plans to designate new biosphere reserves in Lhaviyani and Laamu Atolls, an initiative championed by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu as part of a broader effort to safeguard the nation's natural heritage, according to Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim. He said the initiative aligns with the president's pledge to expand the country's protected areas.

That commitment was publicly underscored during a ceremony in Gan, Laamu Atoll, held in observance of Environment Day. Addressing attendees, Minister Thoriq confirmed that preparatory studies to establish a biosphere reserve in Lhaviyani Atoll are currently under way. Related work in Laamu Atoll, he noted, is also advancing.

The president's wider environmental platform sets out plans to establish three additional biosphere reserves by the end of 2028. Minister Thoriq explained that this expansion would significantly enhance the Maldives' environmental protection infrastructure, which currently consists of three biosphere reserves and 92 protected areas. Proposals for a third new reserve, he added, are expected to be submitted within the coming year.

In framing the government's objectives, Minister Thoriq highlighted the urgency of environmental preservation and its close ties to national economic security. "It is imperative to protect the environment for the future," he stated.

He cautioned that unchecked environmental degradation would "negatively impact tourism in the Maldives, leading to economic repercussions." Reaffirming a shared obligation to future generations, he added, "It is our responsibility to ensure a safe and delicate environment for future generations. For these two reasons, we must commit to environmental protection and to securing a safe environment for those who will come after us."

The ministry's efforts to build public understanding are under way, said Minister Thoriq, who noted that information campaigns, coordinated with island and atoll councils, are being developed to support environmental stewardship, with schools also expected to contribute meaningfully.

Tourism's role in the national economy formed a final point of emphasis in the minister's remarks. He observed that roughly 80 percent of visitors are drawn to the Maldives by its natural beauty, underscoring the sector's heavy reliance on the preservation of the country's environmental integrity.