Frequently Asked Questions

From August 2025, Malaysia's national minimum wage is RM1,700 per month for all employers nationwide. If your employer is paying you below this amount, they are in breach of the law and you have the right to claim the shortfall. Exempted categories may include domestic helpers, apprentices, or trainees under specific training contracts. Seek legal advice immediately.

The Employment Act 1955 amendments reduced the maximum working hours from 48 to 45 hours per week. Any hours beyond 45 must be treated as overtime and paid accordingly. If your contract still refers to 48 hours, it should have been updated.

Overtime beyond standard hours attracts premium compensation — 1.5 times your hourly rate on regular working days, 2 times on rest days, and 3 times on public holidays. If you are being paid a flat rate regardless of overtime hours worked, your employer may be underpaying you.

Employees whose monthly wages exceed RM4,000 are covered by the Employment Act for most protections, but certain provisions — including overtime, rest days, and hours of work — do not automatically apply to them. However, if you are engaged in manual labour or supervising manual workers, you remain entitled to overtime regardless of salary. A lawyer can advise you on your specific situation.

The Employment Act strictly limits what an employer may deduct from wages. Employers may only deduct lawful amounts such as overpayments, advance recoveries, or deductions specifically directed by law. Deductions for losses, breakages, or penalties not agreed to in writing are generally unlawful. If unauthorised deductions have been made from your salary, you have legal recourse.