JOHOR BARU: Johor is set to become Malaysia’s first state to introduce premium salary packages for skilled workers trained under the Talent Development Council (JTDC).

The initiative is designed to attract and retain skilled talent by offering competitive salaries between RM4,000 and RM5,000, focusing on graduates from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

As Malaysia’s first council of its kind, the JTDC will align strategies to develop talent and ensure that skilled workers receive salaries comparable to those in Singapore, particularly in 10 key sectors of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ).

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the formation of the JTDC during its launch at the Johor Career Carnival, held at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, he stated, "We understand the intense competition in retaining skilled workers, especially given Singapore's higher minimum wage after conversion.

"Johor is tackling this challenge by implementing a premium minimum salary of RM4,000 for diploma holders and RM5,000 for those with equivalent degree qualifications."

Zahid explained that the Malaysian Skills Certificates (SKM) levels 1 and 2 are equivalent to SPM, while levels 3, 4, and 5 correspond to a diploma.

SKM level 6 is on par with a degree, level 7 with a master’s, and level 8 with a PhD.

He noted that Malaysia's minimum wage is RM1,700, compared to Singapore's SD$1,500, which is approximately RM5,210.

"To prevent talent from seeking jobs abroad, offering competitive wages is essential. By introducing premium salaries, Johor aims to boost local job prospects, ensuring they remain appealing to skilled workers and graduates from more than 220 TVET institutions in the state," he added.

Meanwhile, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi mentioned that the JTDC would focus on producing skilled workers based on market demand, coordinating courses and training programs accordingly.

This initiative is expected to strengthen Johor’s position within the JS-SEZ, which continues to draw both domestic and international investment.

The three-day career carnival, organised by the Human Resources Ministry through the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso), began on Friday, showcasing 116 companies with 15,000 job opportunities.