Malaysian company Altaiz Digital has expressed interest in building an accommodation block that meets international standards for expatriates in the Maldives. The details of the proposal were disclosed by the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan, during a press conference held by the ministry.
Speaking at the press conference, Minister Ihusan disclosed that the Malaysian company submitted their proposal in March 2023. He disclosed that the proposal submitted includes the development of dormitories for expatriates, free of charge and directly rent the facilities to expatriates for a rent of USD 120 per month. However, the rent of USD 120 has now been reduced to USD 100 after further discussions.
Furthermore, Minister Ihusan noted that the ministry accepted the proposal and sent it to Invest Maldives on May 13. He stated that discussions about the proposal were held at the Economic Council on July 10 and that the ministry is waiting for the final terms by the company.
Additionally, Minister Ihusan stated that Altaiz Digital wants to set up the accommodation block in the Greater Male’ Region. As such, the company proposed to set up an accommodation block of 40,000 expatriates in Male’ City and in Hulhumale’ Phase one and two. They want to develop an accommodation block of 20,000 foreigners on the industrial island, Thilafushi.
Moreover, Minister Ihusan further disclosed that the Malaysian company’s proposal includes the establishment of dormitories as well as residential facilities and services. It also includes a clinic for foreigners, recreation areas, washing and cooking facilities and other essential services. In addition, the company proposes to install biometric software in the dormitories to ensure the safety and security of the dormitories, which will be shared with the government.
Also, Minster Ihusan noted that the government aims to build dormitory facilities in areas where more than 1,000 expatriates are living. It is part of their strategic efforts to curb the issues of expatriates in the Maldives by improving the quality of the life for the expatriates.
In addition to improving the quality of the life for the expatriates, the government aims to tackle the issues by strengthening the recruitment of foreign workers and the issuance of visas. They also aim to take immediate action against illegal immigrants and visa violators.