In the realm of education, the question of a livable wage is a topic of heated debate. For teachers, who are tasked with the crucial role of shaping the minds of future generations, the issue of fair compensation is particularly pertinent. This is especially true for those who have pursued further education, such as a Master’s in Education. In this context, we will delve into the question of what constitutes a livable wage for teachers with a Master’s in Education in Malaysia.
Understanding a Livable Wage
Before we delve into specifics, it’s essential to understand what we mean by a ‘livable wage’. In essence, a livable wage is the minimum income necessary for a worker to meet their basic needs. This includes housing, food, healthcare, transportation, and a small amount for discretionary spending and savings.
It’s worth noting that a livable wage is not the same as the minimum wage. The latter is a legally mandated lower limit set by the government, which may or may not cover the cost of living. The livable wage, on the other hand, is often calculated by independent organisations and is typically higher than the minimum wage.
The Current State of Teacher Salaries in Malaysia
Now, let’s turn our attention to the current state of teacher salaries in Malaysia. According to the Malaysian Ministry of Education, the starting salary for a teacher with a degree is around RM2,200 per month, while those with a Master’s degree can expect to start at around RM2,800.
However, these figures can vary greatly depending on the location, the school, and the subject taught. For example, teachers in urban areas or international schools often earn more than their counterparts in rural areas or public schools. Similarly, those teaching subjects in high demand, such as English or Mathematics, may command higher salaries.
What is a Livable Wage in Malaysia?
According to a study by Bank Negara Malaysia, a single adult living in Kuala Lumpur would need a minimum of RM2,700 per month to achieve a decent standard of living. This figure includes housing, food, transportation, healthcare, personal care, recreation, and a small amount for savings.
However, this figure is based on living in Kuala Lumpur, which is one of the most expensive cities in Malaysia. In other parts of the country, the cost of living can be significantly lower. Therefore, a livable wage in these areas would also be lower.
Is the Current Salary for Teachers with a Master’s in Education Livable?
Given the figures above, it would seem that the starting salary for a teacher with a Master’s in Education in Malaysia is just above the minimum required for a decent standard of living in Kuala Lumpur. However, this does not take into account any dependents the teacher might have, such as children or elderly parents.
Furthermore, the cost of living is continually rising due to inflation. Therefore, while the starting salary may be sufficient for a single adult living in Kuala Lumpur today, it may not be in the future. This is a concern for many teachers, who often remain in the profession for many years.
Comparisons with Other Countries
When compared to other countries, the situation for teachers in Malaysia is somewhat mixed. For example, in Singapore, teachers with a Master’s degree can expect to earn a starting salary of around SGD4,000 per month, which is significantly higher than in Malaysia. However, the cost of living in Singapore is also much higher.
On the other hand, in countries like the Philippines, the starting salary for a teacher with a Master’s degree is around PHP20,000 per month, which is lower than in Malaysia. However, the cost of living in the Philippines is also lower.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the starting salary for a teacher with a Master’s in Education in Malaysia is just above the minimum required for a decent standard of living in Kuala Lumpur, it may not be sufficient in the future due to rising costs. Furthermore, it may not be enough for those with dependents or those living in more expensive areas.
Therefore, while it is possible to live on this salary, it may not provide a comfortable standard of living. This raises important questions about the value we place on education and the people who provide it. After all, if we want to attract and retain the best teachers, we need to ensure they are fairly compensated.
Enhance Your Teaching Career with The IQTS at UWE
Understanding the challenges of achieving a livable wage, The IQTS at UWE invites Malaysian teachers with a Master’s in Education to take the next step in their professional journey. Our International Qualified Teacher Status (iQTS) Programme is designed to elevate your credentials, offering a pathway to overcome barriers, accelerate career progression, and connect with a global network of educators. With the iQTS, you can expect a significant increase in interview callbacks, promotion rates, and salary. Embrace the opportunity to deepen your understanding of international curricula and become a more adaptable educator, all while balancing your current work commitments with our flexible online study options. Make Your Next Step towards a rewarding teaching career with the iQTS programme.