The government should consider implementing a minimum wage policy following the recent complaints of poor wages by civil servants warrants, said Malaysian Trade Union Congress (MTUC) president Syed Sharir Syed Mahmud today.

At a press conference in Shah Alam today, he said the complaint by the police regarding the low pay of its constables was just the tip of the iceberg and it reflects badly on the government - the single largest employer in the country.

"The government must show that they care enough for their employees. Mind you, a hospital attendant only earns RM450 and gets up to RM700 with allowances. Even this is just above the poverty line," he added.

Compounding matters further was the fact that certain civil servants are not allowed to unionise such as the police force, he said.

Be sensitive

In view of this, Syed Shahrir urged the government to be sensitive to the needs of its employees and low-income earners by fixing a minimum wage.

"The government must call for a meeting with all stakeholders to discuss the issue of minimum wage. Furthermore, it has been raised so many times before," added the unionist-cum-politician.

On Thursday, about 1,000 workers demanding among others, a minimum wage of RM900, held a peaceful demonstration in front of the Parliament house.

Until now, the government has been coy about the issue although Human Resources Minister Dr Fong Chan Onn had said that wages should be set by market forces.