Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) and the Maldives Association Of Construction Industry (MACI) have declared their support for the minimum wage legislation.

Representatives from both MATI and MACI attended the parliament's minimum wage sub-committee meeting on Wednesday for discussions. They highlighted the importance of providing a minimum wage for the construction and tourism sector and noted that minimum wage should be established in such a way that it does not affect the industry or the economy.

Likewise, MATI's executive board member, Ibrahim Noordeen noted that minimum wage should not be a random number but should cover the cost of the essential needs of the employee. He further highlighted the underpaid workers in the tourism industry and acknowledged that certain resorts have neglected to pay workers their salary and service charge on time.

Furthermore, President of MACI, Mohamed Ali Janah, highlighted the importance of the minimum wage bill for the construction sector as many construction companies are guilty of underpaying their workers.

Janah further stated that the expatriates in the construction sector receive an average salary of MVR 6000, whereas Maldivian receive MVR 8000 and that minimum wage should be established around that number.

The committee heavily discussed the disparities in salary between expatriate and local workers.

Additionally, MATI and MACI recommended broadening educational and skill development programs as well as setting a minimum wage that attracts youth.