Increasing the minimum wage for "low rank" labourers working in the private sector and labourers working under the Municipal Department was proposed yesterday. YB Dato Paduka Awang Hj Yunos said the wage for labourers in the private sector is not consistent and far lower than those working in the government sector.
Based on the PM's circular 14/2006, the wage rate for unskilled staff is $20.20- $20.30 daily, while for semi-skilled staff, it is $20.80 to $27.20.
For the labourers to get moderate pay scale so that more locals join the private sector, YB Dato Paduka Hj Yunos proposed that the government should set a minimum wage scale in the private sector.
In reply, Minister of Home Affairs, YB Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mohd Yusof, said the rules for minimum wage for labourers in the private sector are dependent on demand and supply, and market forces. The proposal requires a thorough analysis so that it will not have negative consequences. The proposal's effects on the nation holistically would also have to be analysed.
In a neighbouring country, the authorities there did not set a minimum wage rate as it could have negative consequences on the economy.
Asked about the salary of "low rank" daily paid labourers which has not been increased which was raised by YB Hj Bakar bin Mansor, the minister said, "We have rules on whether they are entitled to a salary hike". But the matter would be noted and analysed.
YB Hj Bakar said the labourers said they need a small rise and overtime pay.
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