Our rates are competitive: 99 Speedmart denies ex-staff claim over poor pay, long working hours
Letter to editor
I AM responding to claims reported by FocusM regarding allegations made by an alleged former employee about overwork and underpayment.
The report included comments suggesting that the company paid its employees poorly despite their long working hours contributing to its success.
I wish to clarify that all our employees are paid in accordance with the law and are entitled to additional benefits. Under the Employment Act 1955 and the Minimum Wages Order 2024, the national minimum wage is set at RM1,700 per month.
On that basis, 99 Speedmart not only complies with this legal requirement but in fact, pays more than that.
Across West Malaysia, our current basic salary range for branch manager starts from RM2,800 to RM3,000 not including any additional allowances or incentives which may vary based on geographical location.
Branch managers who demonstrate outstanding performance are entrusted to manage two outlets are also eligible for additional perks.
However, they are typically assigned to oversee one outlet per day. While cashiers receive a gross income inclusive of overtime pay, that exceeds RM1,800 which is well above the national minimum wage.
In addition to basic wages, 99 Speedmart offers a comprehensive benefits package for staff. This includes annual salary increments, year-end bonuses, access to panel clinics with claimable medical visits, opportunities for career advancement and training, a free SIM card with 40GB of data and unlimited calls as well as food vouchers.
Regarding working hours, employees work in shifts. Overtime compensation is provided for any additional hours worked beyond the regular schedule upon agreed by both parties.
All employees are granted all entitled leave based on their years of service. This includes annual leave, maternity and paternity leave as stipulated by law. Employees also receive standard EPF (Employees Provident Fund) SOCSO (Social Security Organisation) and EIS (Employment Insurance System) contributions.
New mothers are entitled to 98 days of maternity leave while fathers receive one to seven days of paternity leave based on their years of service.
99 Speedmart currently operates more than 2,800 outlets nationwide with a total workforce of 23,000 staff.
All in all, I wish to reiterate that the company strictly adheres to all labour laws and remains committed to the welfare of its employees. – April 24, 2025
Yong Eng Kwang is the chief operating officer of 99 Speed Mart Sdn Bhd.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
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