THE new minimum wage will increase from RM1,500 to RM1,700 a month from February 1, 2025, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim when tabling the 2025 National Budget.
The move aims to improve the livelihoods of Malaysian workers, especially when dealing with the rising cost of living, he said.
“This increase in minimum wage is a step towards ensuring a better standard of living for our workers. We are committed to balancing the needs of employees while considering the economic capacity of small businesses,” said Anwar.
For smaller businesses with fewer than five employees, the implementation of the new wage will be deferred by six months, coming into effect on August 1, 2025, allowing them time to adjust to the new regulations.
Additionally, the Ministry of Human Resources will issue new starting salary guidelines across various job sectors to ensure fair compensation in line with industry standards.
For instance, industrial and production technicians will start at RM2,290, while mechanical engineers will see a minimum salary of RM3,380 and creative content professionals will have a starting salary guideline of RM2,985.
“These guidelines will provide a clear structure for fair wages, especially in sectors that are crucial to our country’s growth,” added Anwar.
This wage hike is part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure that Malaysia continues to develop into a high-income nation while safeguarding the welfare of its workforce. - October 18, 2024
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