Budget 2027: Government to Introduce Firm Measures for Fair Graduate Wages, Says PM Anwar

SHAH ALAM, Sept 26 – The government will announce decisive measures under Budget 2027 to ensure higher education graduates secure employment matching their qualifications and receive fair wages, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced on Saturday.

Speaking at the UiTM Alumni Gathering at Dewan Agung Tuanku Canselor in Shah Alam, Anwar stated that the government is in the final stages of preparing Budget 2027, which will be tabled in Parliament on October 9.

“I have previously conducted a study on increases in productivity and wages. Take South Korea, for example, particularly where productivity is high, and wages have also increased accordingly,” Anwar said during a question-and-answer session. “In Malaysia, productivity continues to increase, but wages have increased only slightly. So, we have to use the government’s authority to apply some pressure.”

Addressing separate concerns regarding financial losses and management issues at UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd, Anwar emphasized that a proper review must precede any administrative or regulatory action.

“Please look into UiTM Holdings and find ways to work together with the vice-chancellor and the Prime Minister’s Department. My office will provide the necessary cooperation and input,” Anwar noted, adding that reports on the entity will be coordinated alongside the Ministry of Higher Education.

“Let’s not pass judgment now. Study the weaknesses first and rectify them, or change the people involved… But if there is indeed any wrongdoing, action must be taken,” he affirmed.

The Prime Minister reiterated his commitment to enforcing strict standards of governance across public bodies, particularly those serving the Bumiputera community.

“I am stricter with Bumiputera agencies. That is right, because they should set an example,” Anwar added.

UiTM Holdings Sdn Bhd previously came under investigation by the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) in 2023 over allegations of financial misappropriation and unsuccessful investment decisions that led to RM157 million in losses.

–NMT