LETTERS: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim pointed out that the private sector has a moral obligation to prioritise the wellbeing of its workforce.
The call for the private sector to emulate the government in safeguarding workers' welfare by paying them resonable wages resonates deeply with principles of economic justice and social responsibility.
Workers, regardless of sector of employment, deserve compensation commensurate with their contributions and the cost of living.
In line with the Key Insights into Malaysian Board and Senior Management Remuneration Practices 2023 by the Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia, executive and non-executive directors have received significant salary hikes in 2023, reflecting positive economic indicators and business performance.
This raises pertinent questions about fairness and equity in salary distribution to the middle- and low-income wage earners.
If company directors enjoy substantial remuneration packages, why should the workforce, particularly those in lower-income brackets, be left behind?
By ensuring equitable salary rises across the public and private sectors, Malaysia can foster inclusive growth, reduce income inequality and promote social cohesion.
Moreover, addressing wage disparities aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) No. 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) in the long run.
Adequate compensation enables individuals to lead healthier lifestyles, access quality healthcare, and contribute to vibrant, resilient communities.
Holistically, it's also essential not to overlook the economic wellbeing of employed senior citizens, a demographic often economically marginalised.
It's time for a paradigm shift towards inclusive growth, where no worker is left behind, and every individual is given the opportunity to thrive.
DR R. THANASEELEN
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times