PMX Warns Traders: Don’t Exploit Civil Servants’ Pay Hike by Raising Prices of Essential Goods

December is going to be a month to remember for all civil servants in Malaysia, who are expected to see an increment in their salaries, with the details already announced yesterday (August 16).

With the increment up to 42.7%, do we need to brace for the rising price of goods? Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim reminded all companies and business owners not to raise the price, especially on food, after the increment takes effect.

During the Amat Perdana Perkhidmatan Awam (MAPPA) yesterday, PMX spoke to over 10,000 Malaysian civil servants and assured them that reminders are given to companies and traders.

“I hope that in December, no companies and shops will take advantage because we are going in phases for the salary adjustments. So we should not increase the costs on essential goods, especially food.”

As for the traders who jack up the prices unreasonably, PMX said actions will be taken.

“Enforcement bodies such as the Ministry of Domestic Trade and the Cost of Living (KPDN) will act decisively through its enforcement officers.”

Private sector, it’s time for an increment too

At the same time, PMX also added that the salary increase for civil servants is a message to the private sector to implement similar measures to value this group of workers.

“There is no reason for private companies to receive high profits, but give workers low wages.”

For illustration purposes only

What do you think of PMX’s take on this?

Also read: PMX: No Extra Holiday for Raya Because We Need to Have the Semangat for Work