Cover image via Malaysia Gazette
A nationwide operation by the Labour Department of Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) has uncovered that several security companies are still paying their employees below the legally mandated minimum wage of RM1,700, despite the new rate taking effect on 1 February
JTKSM Director-General Kamal Pardi said the enforcement action targeted 35 security companies across the country and found that some were still paying the old minimum wage.
In some cases, wages including overtime barely reached RM2,000.
"That's why we conducted a simultaneous nationwide inspection of 35 security firms. We discovered that some are still paying RM1,500 or slightly more when overtime is factored in," he told reporters.
The Labour Department had previously received multiple complaints from security personnel alleging that their salaries remained unchanged despite the implementation of the new minimum wage order
The minimum wage order of RM1,700, which applies to workers in the security sector, is legally binding under the National Wages Consultative Council Act 2011 (Act 732).
Employers found violating the order risk legal action and fines.
Kamal urged the companies involved to immediately adjust their payments and clear backdated wage arrears, starting with salaries for March and April.
He added that from last year until March 2025, the department had opened 456 investigation papers against employers for various violations, including under the Employment Act 1955, the Minimum Standards of Housing, Accommodations and Employee Amenities Act 1990 (Act 446), and the Minimum Wage Order.
"In that period, we've issued around 700 fines and compounds to employers, amounting to over RM2 million. Instead of paying penalties, employers should just comply with the law and pay their workers the minimum wage," Kamal stressed.
He reiterated that JTKSM and the Human Resources Ministry are committed to safeguarding workers' rights and ensuring that their welfare is not compromised.
Image via Malaysia Gazette
