One of the promises that was made by the Pakatan Harapan government is implementing a RM1,500 minimum wage for the public sector. However, Deputy Human Resources Minister, Datuk Mahfuz Omar has clarified that this pledge is not part of Pakatan Harapan’s 100-day manifesto, but instead, is a part of its five-year plan.
According to NST, Datuk Mahfuz Omar said he wished to clarify that the pledge was not something that was promised to be completed in 100 days, but will try to be accomplished before the end of PH’s five-year term.
“We are currently studying it. Efforts (to implement the minimum wage) have begun and we are confident of achieving it,” he said.
He also added that the minimum wage implementation will be reviewed every two years to assess its relevancy and that the matter is being studied by the National Wages Consultative Council. After which, the issue will be brought forward to the Cabinet.
Currently, the minimum wage in Peninsula Malaysia is RM1,000 and in East Malaysia, it is set at RM920.
Source: Donovon and Ho
In a previous article by The Star, Minister of Human Resources had stated back in June 2017 that standardising the minimum wage across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan is one of the 10 election pledges made by Pakatan, which it promised to fulfil in 100 days.
Like his deputy, he had also said that “We had set the minimum wage as RM1,500 in our manifesto. We will definitely achieve that figure, but the quantum of increase for now is being discussed.” He also stated that while it would be difficult, it will be achieved.
Let’s keep them to that promise then! If we do achieve the RM1,500 minimum wage, we would have the highest minimum wage rate in Asean (excluding Singapore)!
Also read: You Can Now Track All of Pakatan Harapan’s Campaign Promises on This Website