The debate over a RM7K starting salary for fresh grads in Malaysia is creating a divide between SMEs and the new workforce. This article offers a balanced perspective for both Gen-Z graduates on managing expectations and for SME founders on navigating the realities of hiring in today's economy.

In recent headlines, a former Bank Negara Governor suggested that fresh graduates should be earning RM7,000–RM8,000 monthly. The statement sparked outrage, hope, and confusion. But at My Little Sharing, we believe the real conversation isn’t about numbers—it’s about value creation, economic clarity, and emotional sustainability.

For SME Founders—The Reality of Hiring

• Most fresh grads struggle to match RM3K in output, let alone RM7K.

• SMEs operate on tight margins. Inflated wages could collapse hiring pipelines and stall growth.

• Forced wage benchmarks risk scaring off investors, raising prices, and widening inequality.

You’re not unwilling to pay more—you’re committed to paying fairly. But fairness must be earned through contribution, not entitlement.

For Gen-Z Graduates—Beyond the Paycheck

• High salaries overseas often come with high tax, high rent, and high emotional cost.

• Many Malaysians compare wages without living abroad—where burnout and isolation are real.

• Emotional readiness, adaptability, and contribution matter more than starting salary.

Don’t chase the salary that broke someone else’s soul. Build the life that feeds yours.

What Malaysia Should Be Building

• Modular wage frameworks for SMEs

• Performance-linked growth paths

• Founder-friendly policies that reward contribution

• Government accountability in balancing prosperity with affordability

Malaysia’s edge isn’t in mimicking overseas benchmarks—it’s in designing systems that work here, for us.

Advisory Wrap-Up

For Founders:

Build hiring systems that reward growth, not just credentials. Validate potential, but protect sustainability.

For Gen-Z:

Your worth isn’t just in your degree—it’s in your ability to contribute, adapt, and grow. Seek mentorship, not just money.

For Policymakers:

Take proactive responsibility. Malaysia needs prosperity with balance, not viral benchmarks without context.

Let’s Co-Create a Better Future

Whether you’re a founder navigating hiring dilemmas or a fresh grad seeking clarity, My Little Sharing is here to guide, mentor, and empower. Let’s build systems that honor contribution, protect wellbeing, and move Malaysia forward—together. Contact Us.

• Explore more in our Gen-Z Growth & Career section.

• Need hiring clarity? Visit Founder Systems & Strategy.