Jobs in Malaysia for Foreigners: Latest Pay, Scope & More

Malaysia offers a diverse range of job opportunities for international job seekers, making it an attractive destination for foreigners looking to work abroad. Jobs in Malaysia for foreigners are abundant, spanning various industries including education, technology, healthcare, and tourism. With its growing economy, modern infrastructure, and multicultural environment, Malaysia presents an ideal setting for foreigners to build their careers and experience a vibrant lifestyle. Whether you're interested in long-term employment or a short-term opportunity, there are plenty of jobs in Malaysia for foreigners that cater to a wide range of skill sets and expertise.

Latest Facts and News About Jobs in Malaysia for Foreigners in 2025

Following are the latest facts about jobs in Malaysia for foreigners:

• As of March 2025, Malaysia has over 1,700 job openings for foreigners across various sectors.

• The Malaysian government has recently streamlined the visa application process for skilled foreign workers.

• English-speaking roles in customer service and IT sectors have seen a 15% increase in the past year.

• Kuala Lumpur remains the top city for foreign job opportunities, followed by Penang and Johor Bahru.

• The minimum wage for foreign workers in Malaysia has been raised to RM1,500 per month.

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Overview of the Malaysian Job Market for Foreigners in 2025

The Malaysian job market offers diverse opportunities for foreign workers, particularly in high-demand sectors such as technology, education, healthcare, and customer service. With the country’s expanding economy and a growing demand for skilled professionals, Malaysia has become an attractive destination for foreigners looking for jobs in Malaysia. Foreigners are increasingly being recruited in various fields, contributing to the workforce and driving growth in many industries.

Key Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Malaysia

Malaysia's key industries for foreign employment include:

1. Information Technology (IT)

The IT sector in Malaysia offers numerous opportunities for foreign workers, including roles in software development, network engineering, and IT support. Malaysia’s IT industry is booming, and foreign talent, especially those with specialized skills, is in high demand. Jobs in Malaysia for foreigners in IT often offer competitive salaries, ranging from 4,000 MYR to 12,000 MYR per month, which is approximately 74,000 INR to 223,000 INR.

2. Education and Teaching

Education is another sector where jobs in Malaysia for foreigners are abundant. English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers, university lecturers, and educational consultants are highly sought after. Salaries for teaching roles typically range from 3,500 MYR to 8,000 MYR monthly, which is around 64,000 INR to 148,000 INR. The demand for quality educators, particularly those proficient in English, remains strong across various institutions.

3. Oil and Gas

The oil and gas industry in Malaysia offers lucrative positions, especially for engineers, project managers, and technicians. This sector continues to thrive due to the country’s rich natural resources. Salaries for foreign workers in the oil and gas industry can range from 7,000 MYR to 15,000 MYR per month, equating to approximately 129,000 INR to 277,000 INR. This sector remains one of the highest-paying fields for foreigners working in Malaysia.

4. Manufacturing

Manufacturing is a core industry in Malaysia, with foreign workers filling roles in production management, quality control, and engineering. As Malaysia continues to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities, there is consistent demand for skilled foreign workers. Salary ranges in this sector are typically between 4,000 MYR and 10,000 MYR per month, or 74,000 INR to 185,000 INR, depending on the level of experience and specialization.

5. Healthcare

The healthcare sector in Malaysia has seen significant growth, with foreign doctors, nurses, and medical technologists being highly sought after. This sector offers competitive salaries, with foreign healthcare professionals earning between 5,000 MYR to 12,000 MYR per month, which translates to around 92,000 INR to 223,000 INR. With Malaysia’s growing medical tourism industry, the demand for skilled healthcare workers is expected to continue to rise, providing more jobs in Malaysia for foreigners.

Latest Job Vacancies for Foreigners in Malaysia: Where to Look?

Finding jobs in Malaysia for foreigners requires a strategic approach and utilizing the right resources. Fortunately, there are several effective methods and platforms to discover opportunities. By understanding job vacancies for foreigners in Malaysia where to search, foreigners can increase their chances of finding a fulfilling career in Malaysia.

Online Job Portals for Jobs  in Malaysia

Popular job portals for foreigners in Malaysia provide job listings across various industries, offering an efficient way to explore vacancies. Here are some of the most reliable platforms for job vacancies for foreigners in Malaysia:

• JobStreet Malaysia: One of the largest job portals in Southeast Asia, offering a variety of listings.

• Monster Malaysia: Provides global and local job listings with an option to set up job alerts.

• Indeed Malaysia: Aggregates job listings, allowing easy searches and filters.

• LinkedIn: Great for networking and direct applications to foreign-friendly positions.

Recruitment Agencies for Foreign Placements

Recruitment agencies can provide direct support in finding jobs in Malaysia for foreigners. For job vacancies for foreigners in Malaysia these agencies specialize in matching foreign talent with companies in need of skilled workers.

• Adecco Malaysia: Specializes in placing foreign workers in diverse sectors.

• Manpower Malaysia: Offers personalised job placement services for foreigners.

• Kelly Services: Focuses on staffing in IT, finance, and healthcare.

Also Read:  What Is Global Exposure? It's Benefits and Calculation

Jobs in Malaysia for English Speakers: High-Demand Roles in 2025

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers are abundant across multiple industries, with several sectors seeking professionals who are proficient in English. Here are some of the top roles available for jobs in Malaysia for foreigners:

1. Teaching and Education Sector

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in the education sector are highly sought after, especially in international schools, language centers, and universities. These positions often require English proficiency and teaching certifications such as TEFL or CELTA.

• International Schools

• Language Centers

• Universities

2. Customer Service and Call Center Roles

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers are available in multinational companies in customer service and call center roles. These positions involve dealing with English-speaking clients and customers, particularly in tech support, customer care, and sales support.

• Tech Support

• Customer Care

• Sales Support

3. Sales and Marketing

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in sales and marketing are widespread, particularly in multinational companies looking for professionals to handle digital marketing, strategy, and communication.

• Digital Marketing Specialist

• Sales Representative

• Brand Manager

4. Hospitality and Tourism

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in the hospitality and tourism sector are abundant, as the country remains a top destination for international travelers. Roles include hotel management, tour guides, and event coordinators.

• Hotel Manager

• Tour Guide

• Event Coordinator

5. Information Technology (IT)

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in the IT sector include roles such as software developers, network administrators, and systems analysts. Companies are keen to hire foreign talent for technical positions.

• Software Developer

• IT Support Specialist

• Network Engineer

6. Healthcare

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers are also available in the healthcare sector, where hospitals and medical centres look for foreign professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and pharmacists, with English proficiency.

• Doctors

• Nurses

• Pharmacists

7. Finance and Accounting

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in the finance and accounting sectors are common, with roles like financial analysts, accountants, and investment advisors being in demand in international firms.

• Financial Analyst

• Accountant

• Investment Advisor

8. Human Resources

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in human resources are available across multiple industries. Roles include HR managers, recruitment specialists, and training officers.

• HR Manager

• Recruitment Specialist

• Training Officer

9. Engineering

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in engineering are available for civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers. Foreign professionals are needed for major infrastructure and development projects.

• Civil Engineer

• Mechanical Engineer

• Electrical Engineer

10. Content Creation and Media

Jobs in Malaysia for English speakers in the media and content creation sector include roles such as content writers, editors, and video producers. Many companies are looking for English-speaking professionals for their content teams.

• Content Writer

• Editor

• Video Producer

Visa and Work Permit Requirements for Foreigners in Malaysia in 2025

Understanding the visa and work permit requirements is essential for securing employment in Malaysia. Knowing the steps and types of permits simplifies the process for foreigners seeking jobs in Malaysia for foreigners as a visitor visa or tourist visa available. Being informed about these requirements ensures a smoother transition into jobs in Malaysia for foreigners.

Employment Pass (EP) Application Process for Foreigners in Malaysia

The Employment Pass (EP) is the most common visa for skilled foreign workers. It’s designed for professionals in managerial, technical, or specialized fields.

1. Eligibility Criteria:

• Job offer from a Malaysian employer

• Required specialized skills

• Minimum salary requirements

2. Required Documents:

• Valid passport

• Job offer letter

• Educational certificates

3. Application Timeline:

• Takes 1-2 months to process.

Also Read: Jobs in Malaysia for Indian Professionals: Latest Guide

Expert Tips for Successful Job Hunting in Malaysia as a Foreigner

Maximize your chances of landing jobs in Malaysia for foreigners with these effective strategies that can help you stand out to employers. Following these tips will increase your chances of securing the right position.

Tailoring Your Resume for the Malaysian Job Market

To successfully apply for jobs in Malaysia for foreigners, tailoring your resume is key. Here’s how you can adapt your resume for Malaysian employers:

• Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences: Focus on skills that are in demand in Malaysia, especially if you are applying for jobs in Malaysia for foreigners in sectors like IT, education, or customer service.

• Include Language Proficiencies: Emphasize your fluency in English, as many employers in Malaysia highly value English-speaking skills.

• Emphasize Cultural Adaptability: Show that you can work effectively in Malaysia’s multicultural environment, which is attractive to potential employers.

Living and Working in Malaysia: What to Expect in 2025

Moving to Malaysia for work? Here's what you can expect when it comes to expat life in jobs in Malaysia for foreigners, the Malaysian work environment for foreigners, and tips on adjusting to your new life.

1. Cost of Living in Malaysia

The cost of living in Malaysia is generally lower than many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for foreigners. Here’s a breakdown:

• Kuala Lumpur: Higher living costs due to being the capital city

• Penang & Johor Bahru: More affordable with vibrant expat communities

• Other cities: Costs are lower, with affordable housing and daily expenses

2. Work Culture in Malaysia

Malaysia’s work culture may differ from what you’re used to. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Hierarchical Structure: Malaysian companies typically have a clear hierarchy. Respecting seniority is important.

• Work Hours: Standard working hours are 8-9 hours per day, with a typical workweek from Monday to Friday.

• Communication: Malaysians value politeness in communication, and teamwork is highly emphasized.

3. Expatriate Communities in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to a thriving expatriate community, especially in cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. Networking within these communities can help you adjust more quickly.

• Expat Clubs and Events: Attend meetups and expat clubs to build social connections.

• Support Groups: Many expats share experiences and tips through online forums and local networks.

Conclusion

Malaysia offers a wealth of jobs in Malaysia for foreigners, especially for those with strong English language skills. The country's growing economy and diverse industries, such as IT, education, and customer service, continue to provide ample job vacancies for foreigners in Malaysia by work permit. By understanding the visa and work permit requirements, familiarizing yourself with the local work culture, and utilizing the right resources for job hunting, you can successfully navigate the job market. Whether you're looking for jobs in Malaysia for English speakers or other foreigner-friendly opportunities, Malaysia remains an attractive destination for expatriates seeking professional growth. With the right preparation, you'll be well-positioned to thrive in this dynamic and welcoming country.

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