MELAKA: The state government is studying a proposal to raise the minimum basic salary from RM1,700 to RM2,500, a move that could make it the first state to set such a wage benchmark, says Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic).
The Melaka Chief Minister said the proposal would be evaluated from various perspectives before being submitted to the Federal Government for consideration.
"We will examine it from every angle and conduct the necessary assessment before presenting the proposal to Putrajaya,” he said after a town hall session with youths that was held in conjunction with the "Karnival Anak Muda" at the Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) in Ayer Keroh here on Saturday (Sept 5).
Ab Rauf said the proposal was part of the state government’s efforts to provide young people with better career prospects and encourage them to build their future locally.
He said they must be given clear guidance and made aware of the opportunities available in the state.
“They must be given direction so that they no longer feel there is no room for them to build a promising future here,” he said.
Ab Rauf said the state government was also looking at ways to support women, particularly young mothers whose careers had been disrupted by personal or marital difficulties.
He said suitable employment opportunities would enable them to return to the workforce, regain financial independence and rebuild their lives.
“There should be no generational divide or gender-related barriers in this state.
“Everyone must be given equal opportunities based on their skills and capabilities,” he said.
Ab Rauf said the state was considering an employment model similar to one adopted in Tanjung Pelepas, where young mothers facing difficult circumstances were given opportunities to enter or rejoin the workforce.
"The Melaka Inland Port (MIP) was among the locations being considered for the initiative, he said.
He added that young mothers who had left their jobs because of personal circumstances should not be permanently excluded from the labour market or the state’s development.
Meanwhile, Ab Rauf said the carnival provided young people with a platform to explore educational, career and entrepreneurial opportunities.
“We brought young people together through this town hall to understand their aspirations and guide their future in line with the state government’s direction.
“They must be given clear guidance so that they do not feel there are no opportunities or hope for them here,” he added.
