Adopt Singapore's approach to safeguard local workers, says Wee

A prominent government MP has called for Malaysia to emulate Singapore's labour protection model as the country implements a higher minimum wage, warning policymakers to guard against creating divisions in the workforce.

Wee Ka Siong, the Ayer Hitam member of parliament, welcomed the government's decision to raise the minimum wage to RM2,000, recognising it as a step toward improving worker welfare. However, he flagged concerns about potential unintended consequences if the policy is not carefully managed.

The key risk, according to Wee, is the development of a two-tier labour market where foreign workers and local employees face significantly different employment conditions or wage structures. Such a divide could undermine the competitiveness of Malaysian workers and create market distortions.

Wee suggested that Singapore's labour framework offers valuable lessons for Malaysia in balancing wage increases with workforce stability and protecting domestic employment opportunities. The city-state's model emphasises structured integration of foreign workers while maintaining strong protections for citizens.

The MP's comments come as Malaysia continues to refine its labour policies amid broader economic pressures and demographic shifts in the regional workforce.