KUALA LUMPUR: Aeon Co (M) Bhd has announced the implementation of minimum wage hike for its Grade G employees from RM1,200 to RM1,500 per month effective from January 1.
The company said the amount was the basic salary which did not include allowances or other incentives.
"Aeon Malaysia always prioritises the welfare of our employees and welcomes the recommendation from the Ministry of Human Resources.
"Accordingly, the effective date of the new minimum wage by Aeon Malaysia is earlier than the date recommended by the government, which is by the end of 2022," it said in a statement.
Chief human resources officer cum director of corporate communication Kasuma Satria Mat Jadi said the new implementation was in line with Aeon Sayap Bagimu's sustainability initiative to provide opportunities, encouragement and support to stakeholders especially those in need.
Kasuma said the decision made was based on employee's best interests and welfare to help alleviate the living cost as well as in support of the recommendations by the government, thus the swift implementation.
"Aeon Malaysia is supported by about 13,000 employees of various grades, nationwide.
"Known as 'Aeon Warriors', they are the company's most valuable assets. Their welfare and livelihoods are our key priority.
"Through Aeon Warriors, we will continue to implement new retail innovations to remain competitive in facing the current challenges and most importantly, for the convenience of our customers.
"We stand firm and stay united to play our roles in generating the country's economy," she said.
Prior to this, Aeon Malaysia said the minimum wage was last revised on February 1, 2020 during the presentation of the 2020 Budget, with a salary increment from RM1,100 to RM1,200 per month.
"Aeon's initiative in implementing minimum wage hike is in line with the efforts to champion the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8) where the focus is on providing good jobs and economic growth.
"It promotes sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all," it added.