Workers share their view on raising retirement age
JOHOR BARU: As a young graduate who has just entered the job market, Hanie Yunus has an observation when it comes to the idea of raising the retirement age from 60 to 65.
“Towards 60, I notice many at this age are just waiting for retirement. Often, younger staff end up covering for them. Their productivity tends to decline,” said Hanie, 25, who is in the property development sector.
She is worried that other fresh graduates would be locked out of the job market if older individuals worked longer and did not free up positions for younger colleagues to move up.
“Older employees also draw higher salaries in senior roles – the same budget could be used to hire two or three young graduates who bring in fresh ideas and are more adept at using AI and new technologies,” she said.
Hanie’s comments come as a Cabinet minister reignited the debate over whether the retirement age for the public sector should be increased from 60 to 65, given that those who turned 60 could still be productive and sharp.
Stressing that it was her personal opinion, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said had said that some officials, such as judges, served until 62 years.
On May 23, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government would study the proposal as the idea deserved attention and consideration.
Logistics operations executive Termit Singh, 32, echoed the view that the retirement age should be kept at 60.
“Adding another five years might reduce our ability to enjoy the fruits of our labour. We may not have the energy, time or health to fully benefit from it,” he said.
Termit urged the government to conduct proper studies and listen to the majority before making a decision.
“The authorities have access to more data, so they must carry out the right analysis and come up with policies that truly benefit the people.
“If the retirement age is raised, there should at least be an option to opt out,” he added, stressing the importance of starting financial planning from a young age in order to retire comfortably.
However, financial planner Ng Zhen Wei, 37, supported the idea of raising the retirement age, saying that people were living longer and healthier.
“I would continue working beyond 60 if possible. With the rising cost of living, it is important for the government to review outdated policies,” he said.
Ng also said ageing workers need to stay relevant by upgrading their skills if the retirement age is raised.
“We must constantly improve ourselves to justify continued employment.
“Otherwise, there is no reason for employers to retain us if we do not add value to the organisation,” he added.
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