Gaji mula RM2,500 tak banyak bantu graduan

The Malaysian government has proposed a starting minimum wage of RM2,500 per month for new graduates and skilled workers, starting in 2027, according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. However, experts argue that this may not significantly improve the pay and living conditions of young professionals, as many companies already pay at least this amount.

Geoffrey Williams from Williams Business Consultancy Sdn Bhd explains that the proposed wage is a reasonable starting point, but it is not enough to meet the living standards in major cities, citing figures from Kuala Lumpur (RM2,403), Klang (RM2,161), and the East Coast (Pulau Pinang RM2,180). Barjoyai Bardai from Universiti Sains dan Teknologi Malaysia emphasizes that the RM2,500 figure would only serve as a benchmark, rather than a final target, given the government's goal to transition towards a productively efficient and high-income economy.

The proposed wage should be determined through a three-party negotiation involving the government, employers, and workers, rather than being solely set by market forces or rigidly enforced by the government. Williams also warns that setting a minimum wage without considering productivity, industry conditions, and employers' ability to pay could lead to negative consequences such as reduced hiring, business expansion, and the adoption of contract employment.