M’sian Boss Says Young Workers Demand Too Much Too Soon, Shares Why Bosses Upgrade Cars & Travel

A 56-year-old businessman took to social media to share his perspective as a boss, saying that many young employees often misunderstand the pressures, responsibilities, and financial risks of running a business.

In an anonymous Facebook post, he reflected on how the workplace has changed over the years, especially in recent times, admitting that when he looks at today’s work culture, he often feels “helpless.”

For illustration purposes only

“Many young people come in with no experience but high demands”

The man shared how he started his business from scratch 15 years ago after realising he could earn more doing external engineering work than staying at his company job.

“I graduated from Raman University in my 20s and started working at a construction company. The pay wasn’t great back then, but we didn’t really care because we just wanted to gain experience. I even met my wife there. Life was tough, but it was real and meaningful,” he wrote.

Over the years, he noticed just how different young workers today are compared to his generation.

“When we started working, our bosses only paid us what we were worth. We focused on doing the job first and talked about benefits later. But now, many young people come in with no experience yet already have a long list of demands, such as high salary, flexible hours, and quick promotions. The problem is, not everyone is willing to prove their value first.”

For illustration purposes only

“Have they ever thought that sometimes bosses genuinely mean well?”

The business owner went on to say that one of the biggest issues with today’s generation is that not everyone is willing to prove their worth before asking for more.

“I’ve heard a lot of young people say their bosses are just ‘selling dreams’ or playing mind games, always talking but never doing. But have they ever thought that sometimes bosses genuinely mean well? We just can’t always keep up with rapid changes. Some deals don’t go through, and sometimes the money we invest doesn’t come back,” he wrote.

He also pointed out a common misconception that business owners are rich just because they change cars or travel overseas, when in reality, those choices are often strategic rather than luxurious.

“People see us changing cars or flying overseas and think we’re swimming in money. The truth is, sometimes we do these things to improve the company’s image. Honestly, if I drive an old car to meet clients, they might not take me seriously. Especially in big project negotiations, your image can really make or break the deal,” he explained.

For illustration purposes only

He went on to clarify that bosses’ overseas trips are usually for learning and industry exposure rather than for vacations.

“As for going abroad, it’s not about using company money to have fun. Most of the time, I go to see how foreign companies operate, visit building material exhibitions, and learn about new technologies. Bosses need to recharge, too. If I stop learning, the company stops growing.”

He added that many employees think bosses only enjoy the rewards without realising the weight of responsibility behind the scenes.

“Stay grounded and don’t be too quick to judge. Before complaining about your boss, ask yourself if you’ve really done your best. Bosses aren’t afraid to pay good salaries; we just need people who are ready to take on that responsibility. I’m not saying this to complain, but to help young people understand better. If we’re willing to work together, we can all share the rewards in the end.”

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments!

Also read: “I don’t have to answer my boss at 3 AM” – Malaysian Leaves RM15k Job, Says He’s Happier as Delivery Rider