Kuala lumpur: A total of 4,025 employers involving 51,363 employees have participated in the Progressive Wage Policy (PWP) and met the conditions for salary increases until Dec 31, 2025, said Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. He stated that the government would continue to review the PWP salary guidelines as the period given was until 2027.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Akmal Nasrullah emphasized the need to closely examine how the progressive wage policy can continue to be implemented effectively. He highlighted the importance of cooperation from the private sector to support wage increases in line with better productivity. Speaking at the Dewan Rakyat during the debate on the motion of thanks for the royal address for the Ministry of Economy, he explained how the PWP aims to reform the labour market and enhance workers' income in line with increased productivity.

Under the PWP, employers are set to receive cash incentives after raising employees' salaries according to the established wage guidelines. These guidelines are designed to ensure that employees receive wages that align with the cost of living. Akmal Nasrullah pointed out that the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) sets a median salary and wage target of RM3,500 per month by 2030.

Further, he noted that by 2024, the median monthly salary and wages are expected to rise to RM2,793 from RM2,602 in 2023, reflecting an annual growth rate of 7.3 percent. Additionally, the Minimum Wage Order 2024 has been gazetted, effective February 1, 2025, with the minimum wage increasing to RM1,700 per month from the previous RM1,500 per month. The minister added that minimum wage reviews are to be conducted periodically as outlined in the 13MP.