Malaysia Strengthens Job Safety Net After 7,057 April Layoffs as Brent Holds Above $100
Updated
Updated · The Star Online · May 25
Malaysia Strengthens Job Safety Net After 7,057 April Layoffs as Brent Holds Above $100
1 articles · Updated · The Star Online · May 25
7,057 workers lost their jobs in April, up from 5,855 in March, prompting the government to reinforce the Employment Insurance System and PERKESO protection schemes.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah said layoffs were still below January's 10,658, while the global supply crisis continued to pressure jobs, transport costs and consumer prices.
Brent crude averaged US$111.67 a barrel on May 18-22, up 1.7% from the previous week, and PETRONAS said Malaysia has enough oil supply through the end of July.
Food prices remained broadly contained at between -2% and +3.6%; chicken averaged RM9.57 per kg, beef fell 2% to RM38.45, and sawi rose 3.6% to RM7.80.
The ministry said it will keep monitoring prices, tighten enforcement if needed, and urged consumers to use the PriceCatcher app and public dashboard to compare costs.
Malaysia's economy began 2026 strong, so why are thousands of workers suddenly losing their jobs each month?
As ministers warn of future price hikes, is Malaysia's current stability merely the calm before the storm?
Will a new employee-funded protection scheme truly help workers already facing job losses and rising living costs?