Malaysia to implement new minimum wage from May 1

The Malaysian government will be implementing the new minimum wage rate of RM1,500 (US$351) a month from May 1, despite calls from some business groups to reconsider the minimum wage raise. 

Human Resources Minister M Saravanan has highlighted that the government has provided leeway to some businesses by deferring the implementation date for some economic sectors.

He added that the government will be implementing the minimum wage “rain or shine”. 

“What is important is that it is not based on my wishes, but we follow the act (the National Wages Consultative Council Act 2011) where the minimum wage must be reviewed every two years,” he said. 

READ: SMEs in Malaysia expected to feel impact of proposed minimum wage

The government also aims to create 300,000 jobs this year, under its Zero Homelessness Initiative, said Saravanan. So far, a total of 100 homeless people had gained employment from job placements last year under the programme, he noted.