The newly enforced RM1,700 minimum wage has brought some relief to young Malaysian workers, but many say it is still not enough to keep up with the rising cost of living—especially in urban centres.
A report by Utusan Malaysia revealed that workers are being forced to make significant lifestyle changes to stretch their income. These include taking on multiple jobs, bringing packed meals to work, cooking at home, and delaying major life events such as marriage.
Mohammad Noriman Ahmad Zarkhoni, 22, is one such worker feeling the strain. He juggles two jobs—as a factory operator and a food delivery rider—because his earnings from delivery work alone, about RM1,500, aren’t enough to cover basic monthly expenses.
“Time management is key to avoid burnout. So far, I’m coping, but I do hope the minimum wage will increase, especially since living costs in the capital are much higher than in rural areas,” he said.
Similarly, 25-year-old Muhd Rafiq Ridzuan Zainatul Rahman said his income as a food delivery rider makes it difficult to save for a wedding. “I plan to get married, but I’ve had to delay it because my savings are not enough. For now, I’m focusing on saving up to cover the wedding costs. It’s the most practical choice considering how expensive everything has become,” he explained.
For 23-year-old Thaqif Adib Marozi, preparing meals at home is a cost-saving necessity, although time constraints mean he can only cook on weekends. “On weekdays, I usually eat just once a day and pick the cheapest meals I can find. I really hope the price of raw ingredients doesn’t keep going up,” he said.
The Human Resources Ministry announced on July 23 that the RM1,700 minimum monthly wage would be fully implemented starting August 1, applying to all employers regardless of size. Employers who fail to comply with the Minimum Wage Order under the National Wages Consultative Council Act 2011 may face fines of up to RM10,000 per employee.
