The Melaka government announced it will study a proposal to establish a basic salary range of RM2,500 to RM2,800 in the state before forwarding it to the Federal Government for approval. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ab Rauf Yusoh said the move aims to ensure young people have better incomes to build their futures in Melaka [1, 2, 3].
The government plans to examine the proposal from all perspectives, focusing on improving earnings for youth. It is also preparing employment opportunities targeted at women who paused their careers, with jobs such as container truck driving at the Port of Tanjung Pelepas and potential roles at the Inland Port in Alor Gajah [1, 2, 3].
From September 4 to 6, Melaka hosted a Youth Carnival with career and skills programs, including a Town Hall session at the Melaka International Trade Centre. The event supported the effort to provide young workers with pathways to shape their futures [1, 2, 3].
The state government encourages Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), highlighting Melaka workers' demand by global manufacturing firms specializing in technology [1, 2, 3].
Meanwhile, the Malaysian Economy Ministry, as of September 7, expressed opposition to a fixed wage target at the federal level. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir stressed the need for "greater transparency in wages" and said salary offers should be fair and transparent rather than enforcing an absolute figure [4]. Median wages in Malaysia hover around RM3,600, but wage gaps persist, especially among Bumiputera groups [4]. The minister emphasized wages must reflect expenditure needs based on location and household size [4].
The Melaka proposal thus contrasts with the federal stance, reflecting differing approaches to wage policy between state and national governments [1, 2, 3, 4].
The state government is expected to complete its study before submitting the basic salary proposal to the Federal Government for further consideration.
