MPL reduces employee working hours as part of cost-cutting measures
In support of the government's ongoing fiscal austerity measures, Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has announced a reduction in overseas official travel and adjustments to the working hours of its administrative staff. While these changes to administrative schedules are set to take effect next Tuesday, the company assured that cargo clearance operations will remain unaffected. Additionally, as part of its cost-cutting strategy, MPL will prioritize the use of online platforms for meetings with international stakeholders.
Cargo clearance operations at Maldivian ports. | MPL | MPL
Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has decided to reduce the working hours of its administrative staff as part of a series of cost-cutting measures.
MPL stated on Thursday that despite these changes, there will be no disruptions or alterations to the port's cargo clearing operations.
MPL has decided to implement cost-cutting measures to support the government's efforts in mitigating potential economic risks to the Maldives arising from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The Privatization and Corporatization Board (PCB) had previously instructed state-owned enterprises to reduce expenditures in response to these economic challenges.
According to a statement released by the company, starting next Tuesday, the official working hours for administrative staff not working on a shift basis will be from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm. Previously, these employees worked from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm. Additionally, the company has decided that the working hours for staff on operational shifts will not exceed eight hours per day.
As part of further cost-cutting measures, Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) has suspended all overseas official travel, with the exception of strictly essential trips. The company has also decided that any necessary international travel must be funded by external parties. Furthermore, MPL will now utilize online platforms for meetings with foreign customers and suppliers.
MPL stated that despite the changes to staff working hours, cargo unloading and clearance services at the Malé Commercial Harbor will continue without interruption. The company further assured that these changes will not cause any disruptions to the services provided to customers.
MPL’s announcement of cost-cutting measures comes at a time when businesses are expressing concern over delays in clearing goods from the Male’ Commercial Harbor. These delays have reportedly led to a significant number of Maldives-bound containers being stranded at foreign ports.
