Concerns over worker welfare in Malaysia’s early childhood education sector have resurfaced after a social media user shared what he described as the harsh reality faced by kindergarten teachers and childcare workers.
According to mStar, a man claimed on social media that while parents are charged high fees for kindergarten and daycare services, employees are paid wages that are not commensurate with their workload.
“Why are the staff salaries so low?”
He said his remarks were based on the experience of his younger sibling, who works as a kindergarten teacher.
Kindergarten and daycare fees are so expensive, but why are the staff salaries so low and underpaid?” he wrote.
According to him, the kindergarten where his sibling works is owned by an individual who operates three branches with a total of 15 staff members, including teachers and assistants.
He estimated that most employees earn between RM1,700 and RM2,000 a month, with salary increments granted only occasionally. Bonuses, he added, were typically limited to about a quarter of a month’s salary.
“The owner lives very comfortably”
The man also questioned what he perceived to be a stark contrast between employees’ wages and the employer’s lifestyle. He alleged that the owner lives lavishly and owns assets worth hundreds of thousands of ringgit.
The owner lives very comfortably. Teachers contribute so much and should be paid at least RM2,500,” he said.
He further claimed that staff members were sometimes required to cover their own expenses during team meals or family day events, adding to their financial strain.
The post quickly gained traction online, sparking debate about the welfare of kindergarten teachers and childcare workers. Many netizens sympathised with educators, noting that their responsibilities are heavy and demanding, especially when it comes to caring for young children.
