Former President Mohamed Nasheed on Wednesday, called out against the destruction of reefs and lagoons for tourist resort development.

He further advised utilizing the uninhabited islands, currently not in use, to develop future tourist properties.

Nasheed, known as a vocal advocate of environmental preservation, made the statement on X and said the country needed an alternative to the destruction of reefs and lagoons for tourism development.

"Instead of reclamation, we can still utilize the uninhabited islands that are still sufficiently available," Nasheed said, calling to end reclamation efforts for the tourism industry.

The former president further said industry stakeholders must consider the importance of preserving the nature, instead of destroying them for economical benefit.

His comments have come at a time when Maldives is experiencing coral bleaching owed due to extreme weather conditions.