Workers' wages must consider current cost of living

The setting of workers' wages must account for the current cost of living to ensure that incomes genuinely guarantee the welfare of employees and their families, according to Datuk Mohamed Shafie BP Mammal, president of the Malaysian Trades Union Congress (UNI-MLC).

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For workers, the issue of wages is not just about a number on a payslip. The more important question is what they can buy with that salary and whether it is enough for workers to meet their family's basic needs.

Mohamed Shafie stated that changes in various costs, including food, housing, transportation, and basic necessities, directly impact workers' purchasing power, particularly those in low-income brackets. He emphasized the importance of the government's ongoing review of the Minimum Wage Order 2024 to assess whether the current rate remains relevant to workers' needs today.

"For workers, the issue of wages is not just about a number on a payslip. The more important question is what they can buy with that salary and whether it is enough for workers to meet their family's basic needs," he said. "When the cost of living changes, the real value of a worker's income also changes. That is why wage rates need to be evaluated from time to time so that workers' welfare and purchasing power continue to be protected."

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When the cost of living changes, the real value of a worker's income also changes. That is why wage rates need to be evaluated from time to time so that workers' welfare and purchasing power continue to be protected.

Mohamed Shafie stressed that workers' welfare is crucial, as they are key contributors to the nation's economic growth and development. He argued that workers should not be in a position where most of their monthly income only covers the most basic needs, leaving no financial room for emergencies, children's education, or savings. UNI-MLC is ready to offer its insights and cooperation in the review process to ensure the national wage policy remains responsive to economic changes and the realities of workers' lives.

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Workers leave for work every day to build a better life for their families. They not only need to be able to pay bills and buy food, but also need to have some room to save, take care of their health, finance their children's education and deal with unexpected events.