Minimum Wage: More Under Ismail Sabri, Says PSM
The Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) has called out the government's recent increase in the minimum wage as a mere "drop in the bucket". The party claims that the new minimum wage, while a step in the right direction, still falls short of addressing the real needs of Malaysian workers.
"The increase under Ismail Sabri's administration is simply not enough. Workers are struggling, and the cost of living keeps skyrocketing. We need a substantial increase in the minimum wage to truly make a difference," said a PSM spokesperson.
A Deeper Dive into the Issue
The PSM points to the rising cost of living as the main reason why the current minimum wage isn't enough. The cost of basic necessities like food, housing, and transportation has increased dramatically, leaving many workers struggling to make ends meet.
"It's simply not sustainable to expect people to live on a minimum wage that barely covers their basic needs," the spokesperson added. "This is why we're calling on the government to rethink their approach and implement a more substantial increase in the minimum wage."
The Impact of Low Wages
The PSM argues that low wages have a negative impact on the entire economy. Workers with low incomes spend less, which hurts businesses and slows down economic growth. Additionally, low wages discourage skilled workers from staying in Malaysia, leading to a brain drain.
"We need to empower our workers," the spokesperson emphasized. "A decent minimum wage is not just about fairness, it's about building a stronger economy for everyone."
The Way Forward
The PSM suggests that the government should consult with workers and labor unions to determine a fair and sustainable minimum wage. They also urge the government to address the root causes of rising prices, such as corporate greed and speculation.
"It's time for the government to take a stand for working people, not big businesses," said the spokesperson. "The minimum wage needs to be raised significantly and quickly, or we'll continue to see workers struggling to survive."
The PSM's statement highlights the ongoing debate over minimum wage in Malaysia. The government faces pressure to increase the minimum wage while also balancing the needs of businesses. It remains to be seen whether the government will take further action to address this important issue.