As inflation and prices rise, we all need gradual increments just to keep up with life, not to mention saving up or affording more.
A Malaysian man has taken to social media to share his emotional struggle of being trapped in a low-income bracket despite nearing the age of 40 — a situation he attributes to working in the public sector.
Turning 40 but only earning less than RM5,000
In a heartfelt post on Threads, the man said he felt left behind compared to his peers who have been switching jobs and enjoying pay hikes.
I want to ask, is there anyone here turning 40 but still not earning RM5,000 monthly? What’s holding your salary back?” he asked.
“As for me, I work in the public sector — so I understand why the pay is low.”
His post quickly gained traction online, sparking a wave of reactions from fellow Malaysians who either resonated with his experience or shared advice.
Wanted to join private sector
Like many others, he too dreams of earning a higher salary. In fact, he revealed that he’s often tempted to jump into the private sector in search of better opportunities — but feels like time is no longer on his side.
Sometimes I feel like jumping to the private sector. But now that I’m almost 40, it feels a bit too late. It’s nice seeing friends switching jobs and watching their pay grow along with it.”
While he emphasised that he’s still grateful for the income he currently earns, he admitted that the desire to improve his financial situation is only natural — especially as cost of living continues to rise.
Netizens’ reaction
Many netizens offered their sympathy and practical tips. Some pointed out that experience is an asset and encouraged him to make the leap into new industries that value his background.
“My dad is 80. He was a technician until he retired at 55, and his last salary was RM1.4K. Stayed in government service, they said it would break the cycle of poverty. After retiring, he continued working. Now, as a gardener plus his pension and investments, he earns RM10K.”
“You can just start making the jump — don’t stay stuck in your comfort zone.”
“About the same for me. Luckily, the new salary scheme has a ceiling of RM9K if I’m not mistaken. If I compare it with my younger siblings in the private sector, the gap feels huge. Even those with only SPM qualifications are earning around RM5K–6K per month. That’s not even including their bonuses.”
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