:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

Urgent action needed from Resort Workers

Hassan, K Resort, Maldives 21st Sept. 2004

Hon. Qasim Ibrahim is the owner of the largest hotel chain in Maldives - www.villahotels.com. He has been detained without charge since 13th August 2004. He has thousands of Maldivians employed in his resorts and other business sectors. He is a Member of Parliament - the Constitutional Assembly.

Questions remain unanswered because still we are calmly witnessing the inhumane treatment of our bosses, educated elite and respected members of our Parliament being thrown into jail and systematically tortured by the Government of Gayyoom without any regard or respect. We know that Gayyoom is both cruel and inhumane. We must not stand to watch these horrible events. We are responsible for what happens to these people.

Most importantly, the young generation working in hospitality industry needs to show a little respect to those brave high profile people who spend their fortunes in securing our jobs and create better conditions. People like Qasim not only pay us our salaries but much more. We can depend on him.

You might say that you don’t want to beg anyone for anything, but the reality is you cannot stand alone and accomplish your mission on this planet. Therefore, we need help each other to live in peace and harmony through our lives and create better future for our children.

Why I am targeting the resort workers for action is because we are largest workforce and the most discriminated in the country. For example, I have been working in a resort for 14 years, and still need to be here for another 18 years in order to give my young child a good life and education. The truth is, I don’t even know if that is my child.

If you think hard you will realise that you are virtually a slave for 2/3 of the year. Away from home, family and friends, the key reason why so many marriages break up and why our kids grow without any manners and get into the drugs like brown sugar.

Another devastating reality today is that several new born out are illegitimate because husbands are far away working in a resort. This is a catastrophe, we deserve a better life, we also have to have self respect and dignity.

I urge to resort workers to fight for our rights and help this nation of ours become a haven of peace, prosperity and happiness.