PSM: Minimum Wage Increase Under Ismail Sabri's Rule

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Post on Oct 21, 2024

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Is Malaysia’s Minimum Wage Hike Enough? A Look at Ismail Sabri’s Policies

It’s no secret that the cost of living is skyrocketing, and Malaysians are feeling the pinch. From groceries to petrol, everything seems to be getting pricier. This has led to a growing call for a minimum wage increase, and finally, under the leadership of Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, some action has been taken.

But is this enough to actually help Malaysians struggling to make ends meet? Let’s dive into the details of the minimum wage increase and see if it really makes a difference.

A Much-Needed Boost… Maybe?

The minimum wage in Malaysia has been increased twice under Ismail Sabri’s administration. The first increase came in May 2022, bumping the minimum wage up to RM1,500 for Peninsular Malaysia and RM1,200 for Sabah and Sarawak.

This was followed by another hike in May 2023, raising the minimum wage to RM1,500 for all states. This move was hailed by some as a big win for workers, but others argued that it simply doesn't go far enough.

The Reality of the Situation

It’s important to consider the context. While the minimum wage hike is a step in the right direction, the rising cost of living means that many Malaysians are still struggling to make ends meet. The increase is simply not enough to cover the rising costs of essentials like food, transportation, and housing.

Take a look at the numbers: Even with the increase, many workers are still earning less than RM2,000 a month. This makes it difficult for them to save for the future, or even afford basic necessities.

There’s also the issue of the informal sector, where many workers don’t benefit from the minimum wage at all. This includes gig workers, street vendors, and other self-employed individuals.

What Needs to Happen Next

It’s clear that more needs to be done. The government needs to look at other policies that can help workers struggling to make ends meet. This could include:

• Improving public transportation: This can help reduce the cost of commuting for workers.
• Providing affordable housing: This is a major issue for many Malaysians, especially those living in urban areas.
• Expanding access to healthcare and education: This can help workers invest in their future and improve their earning potential.

The minimum wage increase is a good start, but it’s not enough. The government needs to take a more holistic approach to tackling the cost of living crisis and ensure that all Malaysians have a chance to thrive.

It’s time for the government to take action and truly help those who need it most. Let’s hope that Ismail Sabri’s government will listen to the calls for more substantial measures to help Malaysians struggling to make ends meet.