Malaysia’s minimum wage may soon exceed the current RM1,700 threshold as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim signalled that stronger economic performance would pave the way for another upward revision. Speaking at the Townhall PMX with Youth session in Inanam, he acknowledged that the existing rate still falls short of meeting the daily needs of workers, even after consecutive increases over recent years.
The Prime Minister recalled how the minimum wage stood at RM1,200 before the present administration took office, later rising to RM1,500, and again to RM1,700 last year. Despite these adjustments, he conveyed that the amount remains insufficient for many Malaysians, particularly those facing rising living costs. He noted that once the economy demonstrates stronger resilience and sustainable growth, a further wage increase will be implemented to ease the financial pressures burdening workers.
Addressing concerns raised by Sabah youth about delayed enforcement, Anwar highlighted that several government-linked companies had already adopted higher wage structures to safeguard employee welfare. He pointed out that in entities where the government holds full authority, minimum salaries are set at RM3,100—an indicator of what the administration ultimately aims to standardise in the broader labour market. He also emphasised that public sector wages had previously been raised by up to 30 percent as part of efforts to shield workers from escalating expenses.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that certain industries in Sabah continue to enjoy exemptions from the existing minimum wage policy due to operational constraints. However, he assured the audience that ongoing discussions would focus on ensuring Sabahans do not lag behind in wage progression. He stressed that the government intends to negotiate further improvements, especially in states where cost pressures are more acute and wage enforcement remains inconsistent.
In addition to wage-related concerns, the townhall also turned its attention to educational reforms. Anwar confirmed that Form Six students in Sabah would soon receive the same recognition, allowances, and entitlements enjoyed by matriculation and foundation college students. He explained that Form Six has traditionally been viewed as part of the school system, placing students at a disadvantage compared to those in other pre-university tracks. A proposal by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek seeks to reposition Form Six as a dedicated college, ensuring institutional parity and improving students’ overall prospects.
The Prime Minister further stated that a new Form Six College equipped with hostel facilities would be established in Sabah following the state election. While he refrained from making a formal pledge due to election regulations, he insisted that the intention is embedded in the government’s broader policy direction. The planned institution, he noted, would help reduce household expenses for families sending children to pre-university programmes, thereby strengthening both educational access and social mobility.
With wage reform and educational uplift emerging as two pressing concerns among Sabah youth, the session underscored a growing call for fairer economic opportunities and more equitable pathways for advancement across Malaysia.
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