Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on corporate leaders to exercise greater responsibility and compassion by increasing wages to protect employee welfare and drive productivity.
Speaking at the National Labour Day celebration, he noted that while the government possesses the power to legislate wage hikes, enforcement remains a challenge due to the absence of a straightforward regulatory formula.
The Prime Minister stressed that while the nation expects discipline and high productivity from its workforce at all levels, leaders must reflect on whether workers, including cleaners and sanitation staff, are receiving sufficient attention and justice.
Profits versus fair compensation
Addressing concerns regarding business viability, the Prime Minister clarified that he is not advocating for wage increases that would jeopardise a company’s sustainability.
Instead, he is urging national and corporate figures to be more attentive to the needs of their staff.
He cited the adoption of a RM3,100 minimum wage by government-linked companies (GLCs) as evidence that fair pay does not hinder profitability.
Despite initial concerns when the policy was introduced, he noted that these entities have continued to record strong growth and significant profits.
The Prime Minister reiterated that for the country to remain peaceful and progressive, it must ensure a balance where business owners enjoy comfort while the welfare of the workers remains a top priority.
Economic growth for all levels
Anwar Ibrahim, who also serves as Finance Minister, raised sharp questions regarding the reluctance of some of the nation’s top 50 companies to grant even modest salary adjustments.
He pointed out the disparity where companies earning between RM1 billion and RM2 billion in profits find it difficult to provide even an RM40 increase for their employees.
He acknowledged that while Malaysia’s economic indicators are positive—highlighted by historic high investment, low unemployment, and a strong performing ringgit—he must speak for those at the bottom of the economic ladder.
The Prime Minister concluded by reminding the audience that the nation’s peace and prosperity are built upon the sacrifices of security forces, factory workers, and lower-ranking public servants.
The event, themed Pekerja Madani Kesuma Negara, was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Human Resources Minister R. Ramanan, and Chief Secretary to the Government Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
