Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim, emphasized the importance of providing employees with the opportunity to showcase their abilities and skills within the workplace during his speech at the opening of the 5th National HR Convention on Saturday.
Held by the Maldives Association of HR Professionals (MAHRP), the convention brought together leaders from various industries to discuss the latest trends in human resources (HR) and people development. It stands as the largest gathering of HR professionals, business leaders, and people leaders, focusing on learning and exchanging ideas about evolving HR practices.
In his address, Minister Thoriq highlighted that the tourism sector continues to serve as the backbone of the nation’s economy, providing countless employment opportunities. He urged employers to offer a level playing field for all Maldivians, emphasizing that locals must be given equal opportunities to advance in this sector without facing discrimination or bias.
“We must strive to create more inclusive workplaces that accommodate individuals from all walks of life,” the Minister said. “From youth to women and people with disabilities, no one should be left behind. Everyone must be given the chance to demonstrate their potential and thrive in their professional environment.”
Minister Thoriq also addressed the rapidly changing nature of workplaces, particularly in the wake of technological advancements. He stressed the need for the workforce to remain adaptable, resilient, and agile in order to meet the demands of the evolving industry landscape.
In a social media post following the event’s inauguration, the Minister reiterated that the administration of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is prioritizing the development of local talent, with a focus on nurturing skills across various sectors, especially tourism.
“The government is committed to empowering individuals to realize their full potential, and we will continue to invest in human resource capacity building,” he added.
The two-day convention, running from February 8-9, will feature interactive sessions covering topics such as the role of HR leaders in transforming the workplace, creating optimal work environments, and utilizing data analytics in HR strategies. Additionally, the event will delve into the latest global and local HR challenges and opportunities.
Since its inception in 2019, MAHRP has aimed to support HR professionals in the Maldives by providing them with the latest resources and helping to shape the future of the HR profession. As the nation’s first professional and registered association dedicated to human resources, MAHRP continues to be a driving force in advancing professional standards and fostering people development in the country.
