PUTRAJAYA, October 30 – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the increase in Malaysia’s minimum wage from RM1,500 to RM1,700 reflects the unity government’s commitment to supporting workers and addressing income disparity.
Speaking at the launch of Putrajaya MADANI Residency, Anwar emphasized that waiting on companies to voluntarily raise wages would have been unfeasible, citing that robust investment inflows and national growth demand fair treatment of the workforce. The new minimum wage will take effect on February 1, 2025, with smaller businesses granted a six-month deferment.
Anwar also highlighted the government’s focus on reducing hardcore poverty and shifting towards a people-centric economic framework. He noted that growth alone is not enough unless it benefits all segments of society, including civil servants, small business owners, and low-income families.
Addressing criticism over the absence of mega-projects in Budget 2025, Anwar stressed the importance of focusing on accessible housing, quality education, and healthcare as the true markers of national progress.
