A shop owner’s viral post exposes the friction when an undocumented worker demands RM2,700 monthly wages, sparking a fierce debate on hiring ethics and immigration enforcement.
PEOPLE often expect job seekers to negotiate pay, but frustration quickly follows when employers feel those expectations have crossed a line.
That tension played out on Threads after a user shared an encounter with a foreign national who allegedly requested wages and benefits the shop owner considered unreasonable, despite not holding a valid work permit.
The user described being approached by a foreign national carrying a passport but without a work permit, who asked for work at their shop.
According to the post, the applicant requested RM90 per day, which the user calculated would amount to RM2,700 a month, while also seeking additional allowances.
The user said they were initially sceptical but still entertained the conversation despite communication difficulties.
They eventually declined to offer employment, claiming the applicant reacted angrily after being rejected.
In the post, the user questioned why the individual felt confident asking for such terms, writing: “RM90 x 30 days equals RM2,700,” before adding: “Oh, Malaysia, please wake up.”
The post prompted hundreds of responses, with many focusing on hiring practices and wage expectations.
One user wrote: “Several foreign nationals come to us asking for work at RM150 per day. Goodbye to you,” while also claiming some applicants expected food and accommodation to be provided.
Another user argued that employers should prioritise local workers rather than hiring foreign nationals.
Others echoed the view that such requests should simply be rejected, with one commenter stating: “Do not give them work. If you give it to one, others will ask too.”
Some responses went further. One user suggested obtaining applicants’ details before reporting those without valid work authorisation to the immigration authorities.
Another claimed that daily wage arrangements have made it easier for foreign nationals, particularly those without work permits, to leave their jobs without notice.
Some argued that employers’ heavy reliance on foreign workers, including undocumented ones, has contributed to exploitative job conditions that later shape wage expectations and disputes.
