The government has faced criticism due to the decision to merge the Tourism Ministry and Environment Ministry.

The Tourism Minister's post became vacant after the dismissal of Ibrahim Faisal on January 28. The government has not disclosed the reason for his dismissal.

On Saturday, the government announced the merger of the two ministries and the appointment of Thoriq Ibrahim as Minister of Tourism and Environment.

Social media users criticized the decision and expressed concern for the future of the country's largest industry without a separate ministry for tourism.

Some social media users also questioned the government's policy on climate change and environmental protection.

Several others ridiculed President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and said it would be better to transfer all the ministries under the President's Office.

The government spokesperson Heena Waleed said in a post on X that Muizzu and Thoriq discussed the "strategic importance of integrating environmental sustainability with tourism" during a meeting at the President's Office on Saturday.

"He highlighted the need to promote the Maldives by showcasing the synergy between its natural heritage and tourism sector," she wrote.