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Is it normal to get zero bonus even when company made profit?

Our company announced record profits this year but management said no bonus, only a small token. Meanwhile they bought new company cars for the directors. Feeling demotivated. Is bonus a right or fully up to boss?
Anonymous asker ·Asked on 4 hours ago ·4 views ·2 answers

2 contributors answered

Devi Beginner First-hand experience
Been through this exact demoralising situation. Bonus is mostly discretionary here unless your contract says otherwise, so it's not technically a 'right' in most cases, sadly. What matters more is the signal: record profit, new director cars, but crumbs for staff. That tells you where you stand. Read your offer letter and any bonus policy carefully first. If it's discretionary, don't waste energy fighting it, instead document your contributions and use it for a strong case at your appraisal or when negotiating a raise. Honestly, companies that treat staff like this during good times will do worse in bad times. I quietly job-hunted and left, best decision. Know your worth and let the market reward it.
Chong Beginner First-hand experience
From my experience, unless your employment contract specifically guarantees a bonus (some state a contractual bonus or fixed 13th month), bonus in Malaysia is generally discretionary, meaning it's up to the company. So legally they can pay little even in a good year, which is frustrating but usually allowed. That said, a company that flaunts director perks while stiffing staff after record profits is showing you its culture. Check your contract, if it promises a bonus, that's enforceable and you can raise it with HR. If it's discretionary, your real leverage is the job market, top performers vote with their feet. Personally I'd start looking around and use my performance to negotiate elsewhere. Actions speak louder than a token here.

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