The Government plans new housing development for foreign workers in the Maldives
The proposal, which was given by a Malaysian company might finally be the solution to the increasing problem faced by the workers.
Maldives Insider
The unsafe housing conditions for expatriate workers in the Maldives have become a critical issue, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time period it was revealed that most foreign workers in the Maldives live in small, cramped, and unsafe areas. This issue gained further attention in 2022 when a devastating fire in Male' City exposed the appalling living conditions of expatriate workers. The tragedy, which claimed the lives of ten workers, primarily from India, further highlighted the severity of the situation.
The incident not only spotlighted the dire living conditions but also brought attention to other significant issues faced by foreign workers, such as low wages and the illegal practice of employers retaining workers' passports. These practices have raised serious concerns about potential human trafficking in the Maldives. The combination of these factors has led to a growing outcry and a demand for better treatment and living conditions for expatriate workers in the country. Although such concerns being raised are not usual in the Maldives, there have been close to no measures taken in the form of reform for the expatriate workers, who also make up a large portion of the population in the country. Although several major issues have been spotlighted over the years, one of the most common issues that keep getting highlighted, even by the workers is the poor living conditions.
Finally shedding some light on steps that the Government is taking in order to reform the poor housing condition of expatriate workers, Home Minister Ali Ihsan has stated that the current administration has already agreed to a proposal which will see the development of 100,000 houses housing units for the workers. The proposal, which was given by a Malaysian company might finally be the solution to the increasing problem faced by the workers as these housing blocks are to provide health clinics, ATMs, shops, barber shops, laundries, entertainment venues, kitchens and dining areas, a mosque and special bus services as well. The development of such a facility would easily solve some major issues currently being faced by expatriate workers such as difficulty finding proper housing, laundry services as well as an easy connection to the place of work.
The current plans for development as per the proposal include:
- 100,000 accommodation blocks in the Male’ area; They are in Hulhumale’ Phase One and Phase Two, Male’ and Thilafushi.
- About 20,000 in Hulhumale’ Phase One
- About 20,000 places in phase two
- About 20,000 places in Thilafushi
- 40,000 places in Male’ city
- The company has also showcased interest in facilities being developed in any island with more than 1,000 foreigners
According to Home Minister Ihsan, the company initially offered to charge USD120 or MVR 1,800 per month from the foreigners living in these blocks. However, further discussions have reduced the amount to USD 100 or MVR 1,500 and the money will go to the company doing the work. The success of this proposal could mark a significant turning point in addressing the long-standing issues faced by expatriate workers in the Maldives.
It is imperative that the government follows through with these plans and ensures that the proposed housing units meet acceptable standards of safety and comfort. Only through sustained effort and genuine reform can the Maldives hope to provide a humane and dignified living environment for the expatriate workers who contribute so significantly to the country's economy.
