“Based on my skills & course” – M’sian Diploma Fresh Grads are Demanding Up to RM6K Basic Salary

With the costs of living seemingly skyrocketing, it makes sense for everyone, including fresh graduates, to demand a certain amount of starting salary, but how much is too much?

In a TikTok video by @umpsamalaysia, fresh graduates were asked about their ideal basic salary when they eventually join the working society for the 1st time in the future. The fresh grads had a plethora of answers, but most of their answers were not lower than RM3,000, except for 2 of the students who thought RM2,500 would be a good start.

Some even demanded a basic salary of RM5,000 to RM6,000 because they believed they deserved the amount due to the course and experiences they gained as students in the university. This includes those who are Diploma graduates.

Others justified their demand by saying it was based on the current economic situation.

During the tabling of the Budget 2025, PMX announced that the minimum wage will be increased to RM1,700 from RM1,500, effective February 2025.

A little too unrealistic?

Social media users, on the other hand, were surprised to see how much the fresh grads demand for their starting salary, and many disagreed with paying fresh grads above RM3,000.

“Diploma grads asking for RM5,000 is crazy.”

“Diploma grads demanding up to RM6,000?”

“If you don’t have prior experience, RM1,500 is enough. Work for a year, then you’ll get an increment.”

“When you have landed a job, take a look back at this video. Reality is not as good as your dreams.”

“These kids are still dreaming. Please wake them up.”

“It’s possible, but based on my experience, you’ll have to jump ships many times.”

“If you have experience, you can demand any amount you want.”

“Let’s start with RM1,700. You should experience what working is like.”

To all the employers, what do you think of their demands? If you have recently graduated, what is the amount you have in mind, and why do you think you deserve the amount?

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