Many Malaysians in their 20s are working two jobs, cooking their own meals, or postponing marriage plans in order to survive in big cities.
According to Utusan Malaysia, although the government has implemented the RM1,700 minimum wage policy starting in August, young people say it is still not enough to cover the rising cost of living, especially in urban areas.
Some believe the minimum wage should be increased to between RM2,000 and RM2,500, while others hope the government will tighten control over food prices to avoid adding to the public’s burden.
Responses from M’sians
Mohammad Noriman Ahmad Zarkhoni, 22, works as both a food delivery rider and a factory operator. His earnings from delivery work are only around RM1,500 a month, while his monthly commitments are much higher.
“Managing my time is important to avoid feeling stressed. So far, I can handle it. But I hope improvements can be made to the minimum wage, especially since the cost of living in the city isn’t the same as in rural areas,” he said.
Similarly, Muhd Rafiq Ridzuan Zainatul Rahman, 25, said he has chosen to delay his wedding plans because his earnings as a delivery rider are insufficient to save for marriage expenses.
“The intention to get married is there, but my savings are still not enough. I think postponing it is the better choice for now, given the rising cost of living. I’ll need to work longer to save up for the wedding,” he said.
As for Nurain Syamila Mohd Zamri, 24, she avoids non-essential purchases such as clothes and electronics, brings her own meals to the office, and steers clear of pricey sweet drinks.
I avoid spending on unnecessary things. The current minimum wage isn’t enough and should be raised to RM2,000–RM2,500″
Nurkhairulaiman Najmi Md Kareen, 23, a sales executive, said he spends as little as possible and relies mainly on eggs as his primary food source.
He added that he hopes the government will keep raw ingredient prices under control so that people like him are not burdened just to afford basic meals.
