1. To deepen the understanding of the concept and measures for labor compensation which directly and indirectly affects the productivity and other indicators such as income inequality.

2. To assess the productivity and labor compensation trends of industries that can provide better understanding on the productivity-compensation gap.

3. To determine other determining factors (in addition to productivity) that influence the pattern and change in the labor compensation.

4. To evaluate the types, key features, and determinants of labor shortage by taking Penang as a case study.

5. To conduct feasibility study in establishing a sustainable research-based institute devoted in providing policy-relevant information oriented towards productivity and competitiveness