The government will announce more decisive measures to ensure graduates secure jobs that match their qualifications and receive fair wages in Budget 2027, which will be tabled on Oct 9, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said the government was in the final stage of preparing the budget and would introduce more concerted efforts to ensure wage increases correspond with graduates’ qualifications.
Anwar said Malaysia’s productivity had continued to rise, but wage growth had been comparatively modest, requiring the government to take firmer action.
“I have previously conducted a study on increases in productivity and wages. Take South Korea, for example, particularly where productivity is high, and wages have also increased accordingly.
“In Malaysia, productivity continues to increase, but wages have increased only slightly. So, we have to use the government’s authority to apply some pressure,” he said.
Anwar was responding to a question on measures to ensure graduates receive wages commensurate with their qualifications during a question-and-answer session at the UiTM Alumni Gathering with the Prime Minister at Dewan Agung Tuanku Canselor here today.
On management issues and weaknesses at UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd, Anwar said the matter needed to be studied before any action was taken.
He said reports concerning the company would be examined through cooperation between the UiTM vice-chancellor, the Higher Education Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Department.
“Let’s not pass judgment now. Study the weaknesses first and rectify them, or change the people involved. We have changed dozens of agencies. But if there is indeed any wrongdoing, action must be taken,” he said.
Anwar also stressed the importance of good governance, particularly among Bumiputera agencies, saying they should set an example for society.
“I am stricter with Bumiputera agencies. That is right, because they should set an example,” he said.
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission investigated allegations of misappropriation involving UiTM Holdings in 2023, following reported losses of RM157 million linked to several funds and investments.
