Graduate salaries will be a key consideration in an upcoming government wage review, according to Malaysia’s Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. He stated that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to announce the details soon.
Speaking at the launch of the 2026 National Academia Day and Month Celebration in Kuala Lumpur, Zambry confirmed that the Cabinet has already discussed the matter, with the Prime Minister paying special attention to the issue of graduate wages. Although he declined to specify the amount, the minister emphasized that the announcement will come directly from the Prime Minister’s office.
Zambry also highlighted ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Higher Education to address graduate underemployment by facilitating better alignment between graduates’ qualifications and job opportunities. These initiatives are part of the broader National Higher Education Plan 2026-2035, which aims to improve employment outcomes for university, polytechnic, and community college graduates.
The remarks came in response to Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s recent call for stronger career pathways that correspond with graduates’ fields of study and qualifications. Ahmad Zahid cited data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia revealing that approximately 1.6 million graduates—or 32.2%—are currently employed in positions below their qualification levels.
To tackle this challenge, Zambry stressed the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration between the Higher Education Ministry, the Ministry of Economy, and the Ministry of Human Resources. He noted that joint efforts at the ministerial level are progressing to ensure improved matching of graduates with relevant employment sectors.
Beyond wage considerations and employment alignment, the Higher Education Ministry is also seeking increased funding in the upcoming Budget 2027 cycle. Zambry expressed hope that the ministry’s allocation will rise to support key priorities such as student welfare, facilities, and accommodation at higher education institutions. He pointed out that many university and polytechnic facilities are aging and in need of refurbishment, while student housing remains an area requiring further development.
The government’s steps to review graduate salaries and strengthen career pathways reflect broader concerns about graduate employment and skills matching in Malaysia’s evolving labor market.