As rising costs continue to affect everyone, the idea that a five-figure income guarantees financial comfort no longer holds true.
Many Malaysians earning higher wages are finding themselves just as burdened by the increasing cost of living, especially in urban areas where every expense seems amplified.
M’sians with RM12K income ask govt not to Ignore their struggles
As the government moves towards targeted subsidies, including a dual-price system for RON95 petrol, individuals earning between RM12,000 to RM13,000 are raising concerns that they’ve been wrongly classified as “ultra-rich.”
They argue that this generalisation ignores the real financial challenges they face.
Recently, the Malaysian government announced a proposal to implement targeted subsidies for RON95 petrol starting mid-2025.
Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli explained that under this plan, the top 15% wealthiest group, known as T15, will pay market prices for RON95, while others will continue to benefit from subsidised rates.
However, the criteria for identifying T15 won’t rely solely on gross income, with factors like household size, location, and dependents taken into account.
Not all T15 households live luxuriously
Several individuals falling under the T15 income bracket have expressed frustration, highlighting that they do not live in luxury despite earning between RM12,000 to RM13,000 per month, reported Kosmo!.
Many say they struggle with the rising cost of living, especially those supporting large families or residing in urban centres.
Zawawi Md. Salleh, a contractor from Kuala Terengganu, emphasized that it’s unfair to label certain groups as “ultra-rich” purely based on gross income.
“Although my wife and I have a combined income of RM13,000, that doesn’t mean we live comfortably. We also struggle with rising expenses and are far from being ‘ultra-rich,’” Zawawi told Kosmo!.
He added that policies such as targeted fuel subsidies and increased education fees are adding pressure on households like his.
“Some of the measures in the 2025 Budget seem to unfairly burden our income group. While prioritising the B40 group is necessary, shouldn’t we, as the biggest taxpayers, also get some benefit?” he asked.
‘The financial pressure is different’
Another contractor, Razif Nazri from Shah Alam, pointed out that the cost of living varies greatly between urban and rural areas, making it crucial to establish fair classifications.
“On paper, RM12,000 may seem like a high income, but trying to keep up with life in the city amidst rising costs is overwhelming,” Razif said.
He noted that urban households often face unique expenses, including hiring domestic helpers and managing higher utility bills.
“The financial pressure is different for working couples in cities like Kuala Lumpur. Bills, childcare, and other costs add up quickly,” he explained.
Reassessing the definition of ‘wealth’
Chee Chan Keong, a Gua Musang resident earning RM11,800 per month, believes that the government’s decision to reduce support for those earning five-figure salaries is unfair.
“We face challenges just like everyone else. High living costs are a struggle, especially for those in urban areas,” Chee shared.
Chee stressed that T15 households are not exempt from recurring expenses, such as home loans, car repayments, children’s education fees, and maintaining lifestyle needs.
“The government should ensure fairness for all citizens. T15 households play a key role in driving the economy through spending and tax contributions,” he said.
He further urged the government to reconsider the T15 classification, proposing that only those earning RM20,000 or more per month be included.
