Trades union welcomes RM1,700 minimum wage hike under Malaysia Madani

KUCHING (Oct 19): The Malaysian Trades Union Congress (MTUC) Sarawak Division has welcomed the government’s decision to raise the minimum wage from RM1,500 to RM1,700, under the Malaysia Madani initiative.

MTUC Sarawak chairman Zaidi Nasar views this move as demonstrating the government’s concern for the welfare of workers, as well as its commitment towards improving the living standards of people in the country.

“MTUC believes that the increase in minimum wage will boost monthly earnings, enabling workers to meet their basic needs.

“It will certainly help to alleviate the financial strain they have been facing,” he told The Borneo Post here.

Moreover, Zaidi expressed his confidence that the wage hike would enhance workers’ purchasing power; thereby, helping to drive the nation’s economic growth through an increase demand for goods and services.

“We also believe that with higher earnings, worker will have more opportunities to save, particularly in cases of emergency and retirement.

“This overall improvement in well-being will help elevate their living standards, providing better access to education and healthcare, as well as enabling them to work towards owning their first property,” he added.

Furthermore, Zaidi highlighted that the increase in minimum wage would have a significantly positive impact, leading to more motivated workforce, which would ultimately benefit the performance of the nation.