HUMAN Resources Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong announced that his ministry will use an allocation of RM6.8 bil in Budget 2024 to help increase the productivity of local workers through skills training programmes.Sim said every worker needs better and more fair wages, including employers who want lower costs and higher profits.“If you look at it, these two (better wages and more profit) seem to be in conflict, but for me, how do we close the gap between the cost of doing business and workers getting welfare and better wages by increasing productivity!“If you increase productivity, not only can business employers make a profit, but employees get better compensation,” he told the media at the Civil Training Carnival (KLM) during the Chinese New Year Civilisation Programme at the Ng Yam Huat Hall.He also said that the programmes should offer skills training programmes, especially in the field of technical education and vocational training (TVET).The government allocated RM6.8 bil for TVET skills training, led by the Human Resources Ministry, aiming to enhance workforce skills and productivity, resulting in increased salaries.“Improved certification and skills will lead to higher salaries and wages for employees, benefiting both workers and employers,” he further added.The government aims to boost median wages and employee compensation through a Progressive Wage Policy White Paper, amidst pandemic-induced job losses and stagnant salary growth.Last year, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli highlighted the need for a boost in salaries, hoping this would be achieved through the Progressive Wage Policy. – Feb 24, 2024
Main photo credit: Bernama
