The Labour Relations Authority (LRA) has called on employers across the Maldives to ensure that the Ramadan allowance is paid to all eligible employees as per the Employment Act. In an announcement made today, the LRA reminded employers that the law mandates a Ramadan allowance of MVR 3,000 for every Maldivian employee, to be paid before the start of Ramadan.
The LRA urged both public and private sector employers to adhere to the law, emphasizing that employees in temporary positions, on probation, or on legally entitled leave are also entitled to the Ramadan allowance. The announcement also referenced previous complaints from local workers who did not receive the allowance in accordance with the legal requirements.
Ramadan this year is set to begin on March 1, and the LRA has emphasized the need for timely payments to ensure employees can benefit from the allowance before the holy month starts.
In addition to employees in the private sector, the LRA reminded that those whose salaries and allowances are determined by Parliament are also entitled to the Ramadan allowance. For government employees holding multiple jobs, the allowance will be provided through their primary employer.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Finance has instructed that the Ramadan allowance be withheld from employees who are on pay leave or no pay leave at the start of Ramadan. The Ministry has also set a deadline for employers, instructing that the Ramadan allowance be disbursed by Friday, February 21.
The LRA’s appeal comes as part of an effort to ensure that all employees are treated fairly and in accordance with the law, particularly as the nation prepares for Ramadan.
