Seberang perai: The Human Resources Ministry (KESUMA) has received only one complaint this year from a bus driver regarding non-compliance with the RM1,700 minimum wage, recorded in the first half of 2025. Minister Steven Sim noted that no such complaints were received last year. However, enforcement action had been taken against a bus operator, identified as Penawar Express Line Bhd, for failing to adhere to the minimum wage policy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sim emphasized the importance of employer compliance with the minimum wage, stating, “We urge all employers to comply with the minimum wage. This is not a recommendation, but a legal requirement set by the government and must be strictly enforced.” He underlined that the Labour Department continuously monitors and conducts inspections to ensure full compliance with labour laws, including wage regulations.

Sim made these comments while addressing reporters after launching the MYFutureJobs Career and Entrepreneurship Carnival at the Seberang Perai Prison Complex. He was responding to queries about potential underpayment of bus drivers.

He added that the ministry regularly conducts surveys and random checks to ensure compliance. Recent media reports have highlighted that some express and tour bus drivers have had to rely on travel allowances and overtime to make ends meet, with some earning a basic salary as low as RM700 a month.