There are an estimated 250,000 expats living and working in Malaysia, making up almost 1% of the country’s population. These expats have found work across a variety of industries, taking the opportunity to develop their career portfolios internationally in the diverse economic landscape.
If moving to Malaysia for work is something you’re considering, then here is a guide on some of the top industries and jobs in Malaysia for foreigners.
Range of Industries
There are countless opportunities for work as an expat in Malaysia, so if there's a specific area you’re interested in, be sure to take the time to look into it. That being said, here are some of the most popular industries among foreigners in Malaysia:
IT
Malaysia’s IT and tech industries have seen exponential growth and development in recent years. As such, the door has opened for experts and specialists from all over the world to relocate to Malaysia for work.
Pharmaceuticals
Malaysia is currently home to 445 pharmaceutical companies, creating opportunities aplenty for expats seeking work in the field.
Engineering
Thanks to a booming real estate market and a myriad of new development plans, the engineering sector in Malaysia has countless openings for locals and expats alike. Civil engineers, structural engineers, and architects are in high demand, as well as surveyors, project managers, project engineers, and designers.
Finance
As Malaysia’s economy develops, the need for tax accountants, auditors, and actuaries is rising. The finance industry is not just calling out for people who can crunch numbers; anyone with experience in financial technology will find a variety of roles available to them in Malaysia.
Tourism
As a country that is frequented by travellers, the tourism industry in Malaysia always welcomes newcomers. Particularly for those who speak English, finding work in the tourism sector shouldn’t be too difficult, as this is a desirable skill to make working with English-speaking tourists a more seamless experience.
Working in Malaysia
Whether you’re an individual contemplating moving to Malaysia or you’re an employer who intends to support employees during their Malaysian relocation, there are a few things to be aware of before booking any flights.
Visas
Malaysia requires foreign workers to obtain a visa before commencing employment. You can find more information on the relevant visas through Malaysia's immigration website.
Work culture
The Malaysian workforce is made up of professionals from various backgrounds, predominantly Malaysian, Chinese, and Indian. Before joining, you should be sure to familiarise yourself with the customs and cultures of the people who will become your colleagues.
Codes of conduct
As the Malaysian workforce is so diverse and quickly developing, workplaces with a high volume of expat employees typically follow Western codes of conduct. Again, this is something to ensure you are familiar with before moving to Malaysia for work.
Moving to Malaysia
When the decision is made, you’ve got your visa, and you’re ready to go, the
Allied Malaysia team will be here to help. We offer everything from professional packing to
corporate relocation services, with expert teams based throughout the country.
Contact us today to begin planning your move.