I am taken aback by Noor Yahaya Hamzah’s opinion. I am no economist, but what is being suggested by Noor Yahaya kills an economical basic. I am not from the rich either. Imagine if the government increases individual tax and distributes the additional income to make up the ‘shortage’ in the lower income group.

If that is the case, I do not have to study or work hard enough because I need not worry about a ‘shortage’ in my income. I just need to earn RM450 and wait for another RM450 ‘bonus’ from the government every month. At a time when we are talking about and striving for a competitive edge, here is someone who believes that sitting back is a good thing.

We cannot blame or punish somebody for earning RM3,000, RM10,000 or even RM100,000 a month. You have to earn your income, not just wait for it to fall from the sky. At the end of the day, it is about your ability and productivity. The idea of letting somebody work hard and earn high enough a salary to cover those who earn less sounds like a daylight robbery.

MTUC has its own agenda in fighting for the minimal income ruling. Are we ready to pay RM900 per month for a maid? I agree that something needs to be done to narrow the income gap, but I do not see the setting of a minimal income wage across the board as an ideal solution.

There should be a thorough study of the whole situation – the low income group, the industries affected, geographical distribution and costs of basic needs. I would rather set minimal pay against qualifications and experience. This is better than every Tom, Dick and Harry enjoying minimum pay regardless of their academic background and working experience.