If you’ve ever worked your butt off only to not get paid or found out that your EPF hasn’t been contributed for months, you’re not alone. Sadly, it’s a problem that a lot of Malaysians face.
Some bosses will even tell their staff to go on unpaid leave because they “can’t afford to pay” but still expect you to keep working. That’s not just unfair. That’s wrong.
So if you (or someone you know) is stuck in this situation, here’s what you can do.
1. First, file a complaint about your unpaid salary to JTK
The Department of Labour (Jabatan Tenaga Kerja, or JTK) can help you chase your wages. Once you file a complaint, they’ll actually call your boss in for a discussion or even a hearing.
If your boss can’t give a solid reason why they haven’t paid you, legal action can be taken.
What you need to prepare:
- Pay slips
- Your employment contract
- Screenshots or emails showing you’ve asked about the salary
All these can support your case.
You can file this complaint at the nearest JTK office, or online here: https://jtksm.mohr.gov.my
2. Check your EPF & report if your boss hasn’t contributed
You can log in to your KWSP (EPF) account to check if your employer is making the monthly contributions.
If something looks off or it hasn’t been updated in a while, you can lodge a report directly with EPF.
They’ll investigate and can actually take legal steps against your boss if needed.
You can report it online or go to any KWSP branch. More info here: https://www.kwsp.gov.my
3. If nothing works, consider legal action
Let’s say you’ve already reported to JTK and EPF and your employer still doesn’t want to cooperate, you don’t have to let it slide.
You can take legal action, especially with the help of a lawyer who knows labour law.
Depending on the situation, your case might go to the:
- Labour Court (for wage-related matters)
- Industrial Court (for more serious employment issues)
A proper consultation will help you know what your chances are and what you’re entitled to.
4. Sometimes, the best move is to leave
If nothing’s improving and your boss keeps dragging their feet, it might be time to find a better job. Seriously, you deserve to work in a place that values you and pays you fairly.
We get it, quitting isn’t always easy. But don’t let a toxic or irresponsible employer ruin your financial stability or mental health.
5. Keep all your receipts. Yes, even the WhatsApp messages
Don’t delete those messages just yet. Keep everything:
- Emails
- WhatsApp or text convos
- Salary slips
- Any letters from HR
These things can be crucial if your case goes to court or gets escalated to JTK or KWSP.
TL;DR — What are your rights?
- You have the right to be paid for your work, full stop.
- Your boss must contribute to your EPF every month, it’s the law.
- If they don’t, you can report them to JTK or KWSP, or even take legal action.
- Don’t wait too long. Record everything, get advice, and don’t hesitate to speak up.
If this is happening to you or someone you know, don’t brush it off. It’s not just “company problems”, it’s your life and your income.
Need help?
JTK: https://jtksm.mohr.gov.my
KWSP: https://www.kwsp.gov.my
You work hard. You deserve to be paid and protected.
Source: Rizlan Ghazali Chewan
