PENAMPANG: The progressive wage scheme, as explained by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, will compel profitable companies to increase the salaries of private sector workers.
"A company with a profit of RM1 billion, yet paying its workers between RM1,800 and RM2,000, is inconsistent with Madani values.
"Madani thrives on sustainable economic growth, fostering a culture of generosity, compassion, and love, where we prioritise meaningful work for individuals with fair and substantial wages.
"This distinguishes us from previous governments, all aiming for a great economy and new industries. Our focus is on ensuring reasonable salaries and wages," he said during the National Hawkers and Small Traders Carnival 2023 (HPPK 2023) at Buhavan Square.
Also present at the event were Sabah chief minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, state cabinet minister, and Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.
Regarding civil service salaries, Anwar assured that a decision on an increase would be made next year, given that the salary scheme was last reviewed a decade ago. Anwar, who is also finance minister, added that the federal government would inject funds to support and subsidize items such as rice and chicken in Sabah.
Acknowledging the impact of geopolitical issues, especially the wars in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine, on goods prices, Anwar highlighted the necessity of addressing these challenges in Sabah and Sarawak.
"I will instruct Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadhillah Yusof to establish a special committee to address the prices of items in Sabah and Sarawak."
On education matters, Anwar emphasised the need to focus on basic facilities for students instead of solely advancing technological development.
"Last year, discussions about education centred around artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and energy transition, which all sounded great.
"However, we still have dilapidated schools. We must provide children with comfortable school environments, without broken walls, roofs, or malfunctioning toilets. That's why this year, we addressed more than 8,300 school toilets," he said.