Economy Minister Akmal says RM2,000 minimum wage decision rests with PM Anwar in Budget 2027

Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir, the Economy Minister, stated that any decision on raising the minimum wage to RM2,000 should be determined by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during the presentation of Budget 2027. The minister emphasized the importance of considering the impact on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly to ensure that employers can manage the increased operational costs.

After visiting the Kluang District Police Headquarters, he commented on economists' concerns that a higher minimum wage could result in higher prices for goods and services. The government is currently allocating RM127 million under Rolling Plan 1 (RP1) of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) for police quarters and station repairs and maintenance nationwide.

This allocation includes an additional RM5 million through a Notice of Change (NOC), making the total amount RM127 million, as opposed to the original RM122 million. Of this total, RM44.35 million is designated for police station repairs and maintenance, while RM77.65 million is for 3,716 quarters. For Kluang, RM3.7 million has been allocated, covering the upgrading of 10 quarters and repairs at PDRM premises under the Kluang District Police Headquarters.

Nasrullah highlighted that this allocation strategy ensures that resources are directed towards legitimate needs, enhancing public service delivery.