KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is targeting a minimum monthly wage of RM3,000 by 2030 as part of broader labour reforms under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), says Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
“Reforms would focus on building a more dynamic, competitive and sustainable workforce while improving workers’ income levels,” he said at the national Labour Day celebration at Bukit Jalil yesterday.
He said the government was targeting the minimum wage while reducing dependence on low-skilled jobs.
Beginning this June, Ramanan said the government would also implement the Lindung 24 Jam scheme, providing round-the-clock protection for 9.6 million employees, including accidents occurring outside working hours.
“This is not just a policy, but a promise from the government to its citizens,” he said.
Ramanan also announced that the Housewives Social Security Scheme (SKSSR) age limit would be increased from 55 to 60, benefiting more than 720,000 women.
“Housewives care for children, parents and sick family members. They contribute greatly to the country and it is time for us to repay their service with better protection,” he said, adding that the nation aims to build a more dynamic, technology-driven workforce under the 13MP.
He stressed that Malaysia must move beyond merely using technology.
“We want ‘Made by Malaysia’ to be recognised around the world. We do not just want to use technology, we want to create it.”
To support this goal, Ramanan said his ministry would set up a Semiconductor Academy to train workers in chip technology and artificial intelligence.
He said the ministry was also reforming 26 labour-related laws to ensure they remain relevant and effective for future employment challenges.
Among the new initiatives announced was the Mobile Labour Court, which would bring dispute resolution services directly to workplaces, delivery hubs and city centres.
Ramanan said gig workers would also receive greater support through welfare programmes, health screenings and counselling services.
He urged employers to invest more in fair wages and skills development.
He said the government’s economic reforms had strengthened the labour market and improved Malaysia’s competitiveness.
He said the economy grew by 5.2% last year, while Malaysia’s ranking in the World Competitiveness Ranking improved to 23rd place from 34th, previously.
The unemployment rate also dropped to 2.9%, the lowest in 11 years, while women’s labour force participation rose to 56.5%.
“They are not just participating quietly, but are actively pushing the country forward,” said Ramanan.
