KUALA LUMPUR: As the government moves toward reforming the labour market, more skilled jobs that offer high salaries will be created.
Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said emphasis will be given on automation and innovation by adopting new technologies as well as commercialising intellectual property.
In tabling the 11th Malaysia Plan's (11MP) mid-term review in Parliament today, Dr Mahathir said priority will be given to high quality investments in order to produce a more high-skilled labour workforce.
“To increase salaries and wages, the government will continuously review the minimum wage level and at the same time, form the National Salary Index.
“The minimum wage difference between Peninsular Malaysia,
Sabah and Sarawak have been successfully addressed. Starting January 1, 2019 minimum wage has been standardised to RM1,050 monthly, nationwide.
“The government also aims to reduce dependency on foreign workers through improvements in the management of foreign workers," he said.
Among the proposed measures, according to Dr Mahathir, is the multi-tier levy system in which employers can determine how many foreign workers they want to hire.
Dr Mahathir also remarked that if local workers are willing to work, then there is no need to have foreign workers in the country.