KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 1 — The new Minimum Wage Order, which starts today, has been hailed as a significant step to ease the burden of workers in the country and improve their living standards.
A customer service employee at a courier company, Nur Fatihah Sophian, 27, said the minimum wage increase to RM1,700 per month provides much-needed relief, especially for workers in Kuala Lumpur as they cope with rising living costs.
“Previously, my salary was barely enough to cover rent and transport expenses, and at times, I couldn’t afford to support my parents financially. This increase helps ease those burdens,” she told Bernama.
A corporate communications executive at a plantation firm, Siti Khadijah Amir Hamzah, 26, expressed gratitude for the revised minimum wage and called it a good start for workers in 2025.
“Perhaps in the future, the minimum wage could be raised further, given Kuala Lumpur’s high cost of living. However, any increase should align with factors such as education levels and productivity,” she said.
The Human Resource Ministry announced that the order sets a minimum wage of RM1,700 per month for employers with at least five workers and those engaged in professional activities, regardless of the number of workers employed.
For employers with fewer than five workers, the enforcement will take effect on August 1, allowing them time to adjust their wage structures and business operations.
This initiative is expected to benefit 4.37 million workers, in line with the Madani Economy agenda, which prioritises social justice and the well-being of the people while promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
Meanwhile, a business manager at a cybersecurity company, Shamin Merrissa, 33, said the minimum wage increase was necessary and should be reviewed progressively to remain relevant.
“It’s time for the Malaysian workforce, particularly newcomers to the job market, to receive salaries that match the cost of living.
“We fully support this implementation and will ensure full compliance with the order. Our employees’ welfare remains a priority,” she said.
Entrepreneur Mohd Fahmy Ishak, 37, called the new minimum wage order a proactive step by the government to increase workers’ purchasing power, eradicating poverty and improving quality of life.
— Bernama
