How to get a job in Malaysia from India: (6 easy steps)

Expat life
04 Aug 2024
12 mins read
Written by pranit

With a diverse job market, there is an array of job opportunities in Malaysia for Indians. If you are wondering,’ Can I get a job in Malaysia from India’? The answer is yes!

 

Malaysia is known for its work-life balance and stable labour market. Moreover, the country offers lucrative job opportunities in industries like Information Technology and Finance. 

 

Are you planning on exploring career opportunities in Malaysia? In that case, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary details you may need to get a job in Malaysia from India.     

Quick read

How to get jobs in Malaysia from India?

 

  1. Learn about Malaysia’s job market. 
  2. Assess your professional skills. 
  3. Draft a resume that caters to Malaysia’s job market.
  4. Network with people through Malaysia’s job websites.
  5. Apply for Malaysia’s work permits.
  6. Complete all your visa formalities.

Do you know?

  • In Malaysia, only 3.9% of the total labour force has remained unemployed since 2022, marking a 09% drop from the 4.6% unemployment rate in 2021. [1]
  • Malaysia ranks 10th globally in the Global Peace Index Score in 2024. [2] 
  • The annual GDP growth was 3.7% in Malaysia in 2023. [3]

How to get a job in Malaysia from India?

Step 1: Learn about Malaysia’s job market

Before starting your job search in Malaysia, it is essential to understand the Malaysian job market. Identifying the industries and positions that align with your skill set, work experience, qualifications and interests will help you get a clearer idea and filter your search for jobs based on your priorities. 

 

Additionally, exploring the Malaysian government websites will help you gain insights into labour laws, in-demand skills and other useful resources for your job search as a foreign national. 

Step 2: Assess your professional skills

Before applying for jobs, assess your skills, strengths, areas for improvement, and professional experience through assessment tests. Websites like LinkedIn offer skill-specific tests to enhance your resume with industry-specific strengths. This approach helps you find roles aligned with your skills and interests. 

 

Additionally, gaining basic proficiency in Bahasa Melayu can improve job prospects by enabling effective communication and relationship-building with colleagues.    

Step 3: Draft a resume that caters to Malaysia’s job market

Your resume should generally include all your details, including your name, date of birth, nationality and city of residence. Using ATS resume templates is a great way to draft a resume for international job roles. 

You can draft ATS-friendly resumes using popular websites like Indeed or a paid structure development tool that is easily available online. 

Step 4: Network with people through Malaysia’s job websites

Networking with industry professionals helps you find job opportunities and understand local culture. Platforms like LinkedIn enable direct contact with recruiters and employers for insights into open positions and requirements. Participating in virtual events and joining online groups related to your profession expands your network and uncovers potential job leads.

 

Additionally, it is important to learn about the most asked interview questions to prepare them well in advance. 

 

Also read: What is the country code for Malaysia

Step 5: Apply for Malaysia’s work permits

In Malaysia, employers must apply to the Expatriate Committee or a relevant regulatory agency for a work permit on behalf of the employee. However, this permit is valid for positions in specific industries like technology, finance and management that demand longer employment durations ranging from one to five years. 

 

The Malaysia Professional Visit Pass is suitable for employment durations of up to 12 months. You can apply for a work visa by submitting an application, documentation and fees on the Malaysian Visa Application Centre website

 

The essential documents required include the following: 

  1. Valid Identity proof
  2. A signed application form
  3. Past employment testimonials
  4. The Malaysia offer letter 
  5. Criminal records
  6. Educational credentials
  7. Detailed work description  
Step 6: Complete all your visa formalities

Ensure you complete all necessary visa formalities to work in Malaysia from India. Submit the required documents, including your educational certificates, transcripts and other relevant documents to the Malaysian Qualifications Agency for evaluation.

 

This process may take up to 30 days and involves a fee. Make sure to research the job requirements and submit a complete application that aligns with the mentioned requirements. 

Job opportunities in Malaysia for Indians

Malaysia’s job market offers diverse career opportunities across various lucrative industries. Here are some popular job roles and their average wages as per market standards in 2024.

 

Industry and Sub Divisions

Job roles

Average base salary 

Accounting

Accounting Assistant

MYR  84,000

Junior Accountant

MYR  98,000 

Accountant

MYR 108,000

Finance Leadership 

Head of Finance

MYR 240,000

Senior Financial Controller 

MYR 264,000

Finance Director

MYR 300,000

Tax

Corporate Tax Senior

MYR 96,000

Tax Manager

MYR 204,000 

Head of Tax

MYR 330,000

Digital

Digital Content Writer

MYR 60,000

Digital Marketing Specialist

MYR 120,000

Digital Director

MYR 300,000

Engineering & Manufacturing

Engineer

MYR 60,000

Senior Quality Engineer

MYR 96,000

Site Director

MYR 420,000

Executive

Operations Director

MYR  420,000

Executive Director

MYR 520,000

Chief Executive Officer

MYR 720,000

Healthcare & Life Sciences

Nurse

MYR 84,000

Doctor

MYR 144,000

Medical Manager

MYR 199,000 

Human Resources

Human Resources Payroll Administrator

MYR 76,000

Human Resources Advisor

MYR 123,000

Human Resources Director

MYR 264,000

Legal

Fraud Analyst

MYR 84,000

Contract Lawyer

MYR 180,000

Head of Legal

MYR 300,000

Source: Michael Page Salary Guide – Insights for Malaysia 2024

 

Also read: Average salary in Malaysia in 2024 – The ultimate guide

Eligibility

Educational Qualifications

Employers in Malaysia often require candidates to have their credentials recognised to ensure alignment with the educational framework and standards prescribed by Malaysian universities. 

 

The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) oversees the process following the Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF). When applying for jobs in Malaysia, you must get your credentials recognised by submitting your educational certificates, transcripts, and other relevant documents to the MQA for evaluation. 

 

Your employer may request an additional certificate if your qualifications fail to meet MQA regulations before you can join the company.

Language Proficiency

Malay is the official language of Malaysia. Sectors like education, manufacturing, healthcare and customer service may require proficiency in Malay to communicate effectively with local clients. 

 

On the other hand, English is commonly used in global sectors like Information Technology and Finance. Most job roles in these sectors demand fluency in English due to the predominance of international clientele. 

Professional Experience

Prior professional expense is greatly valued in dynamic sectors like information technology, Finance, Healthcare and Executiveroles. Employers may prefer experienced candidates over freshers for executive roles as these sectors require in-depth industry-specific knowledge. Significant work experience in these sectors is rewarded with attractive salary packages.  

Legal Permits

As a foreign working professional, you need a valid Employment pass to work in Malaysia. The Employment pass and valid work visa permit legal work in Malaysia for the authorised duration.

However, it is important to note that you will be granted an Employment Pass only if your employer is deemed eligible by the  Expatriate Committee and the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

How to apply for jobs in Malaysia from India?

You can apply for jobs in Malaysia from India via popular global portals like Indeed, LinkedIn, PlacementIndia etc. Such websites provide comprehensive information on job vacancies in Malaysia for Indian professionals. 

 

The featured search bars on these  Malaysia job portals for Indian professionals will also help you filter jobs based on factors like qualifications, job locations, salary, etc. You can also register with a reputable overseas employment agency to find a suitable job. 

 

This should make it easier to search for Malaysian job opportunities that align with your qualifications, financial priorities and interests. 

 

There are several opportunities available for work-from-home jobs in Malaysia from India. However, you must discuss the legal details regarding work permits, taxation, etc., with your employer before signing any contracts. 

Malaysia work permits and immigration processes

To work in Malaysia, foreign professionals need an Employment Pass, which allows them to work in recognised organisations. There are three categories based on occupation duration and salary. Required documents for an Employment Pass application include:

 

Sr.No.

List of Documents

1.

A Passport Photo with the acceptable format and size. 

2.

A copy of a valid Passport

3.

A copy of the candidate’s highest educational certificates

4.

A testimonial if the applicant is unable to provide any Educational Certificates

5.

The Latest Comprehensive Resume

6.

A Release letter from the previous employer in Malaysia if there is a change of employer 

7.

Duly stamped copy of the Employment Contract by the Malaysia Inland

Revenue Board

8.

Supporting documents from a Regulatory Body or Approving Agency (if applicable)

9.

A  detailed Job Description printed on the company’s letterhead

10.

Payslips

11.

Latest e-BE / e-M tax filing

12.

Tax payment receipts (if any)

13.

Latest EA Form

14.

Account statement from Malaysia Inland Revenue Board

15.

Other documents specified upon request 

Source: Expatriate Services Division (ESD Malaysia)ESD Guidebook 2024.

Malaysian workplace culture

As you apply for jobs in Malaysia from India, get acquainted with the country’s workplace culture for a smoother transition into your new workspace. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind when interacting with Malaysian colleagues or socialising in your Malaysian workplace: 

Core Values and Beliefs

In Malaysia, emphasising teamwork and group interests over individual goals promotes workplace cooperation and harmony, while maintaining polite communication helps prevent conflicts.

Workplace Communication

Communication in most Malaysian workplaces is often indirect and context-based. Non-verbal cues and the context of the conversation hold great importance. Polite communication is the norm and conflict resolution is prioritised during workplace friction. Public criticism is also avoided to maintain social harmony and respect.  

Business Etiquette

In Malaysian workplaces, it’s crucial to be mindful of cultural taboos. Business meetings often prioritise building trust, emphasising the importance of showing respect in formal interactions.

Work-Life Balance

The standard workweek in Malaysia is 44 hours, with overtime being compensated. Flexible working arrangements, such as online communication and flexible hours, are becoming more common to help employees balance personal and professional responsibilities. 

Dos & Don’ts

Do’s
  • Apply for the right work permits and submit all required documents correctly. 
  • Research the company values, culture and work environment before applications. 
  • Tailor your resume to the industry standards as well as your job role. 
  • Try to build a good online network within your industry. 
  • Be respectful during the interview process.   
Don’ts
  • Avoid applying to every job you come across; be selective and choose jobs that match your skills and experience. 
  • Avoid neglecting your job profiles. Your presence on the job sites and the way you present yourself and your qualifications is essential.  
  • Avoid being late for your interviews. 
  • Avoid neglecting visa formalities.  

Before you go…

Malaysia’s job market offers diverse career opportunities. When applying for jobs in Malaysia from India, you must research and understand various related aspects like the eligibility for work permits, the pay scale, the work culture and finances. 

 

For safe international transactions, finding reliable services is essential. If you’re moving to Malaysia for your career and need to send money from Malaysia to India or vice versa. A dependable service provider for such fund transfers is Instarem. 

 

Instarem only offers affordable# conversation rates and a fast* transfer service. Moreover, it is not easily accessible on the go with the Instarem App which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

FAQs

Q. What is the best way to apply for jobs in Malaysia from India?

The best way to apply for jobs in Malaysia from India is by using reliable global job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn.  

 

Q. How to find jobs in Malaysia from India?

Job opportunities in Malaysia can easily be found by using global job portals or company websites that post job vacancies.  

 

Q. Is it possible to get a job in Malaysia from India?

Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for the work permit and the job in question, you can get a job in Malaysia from India. 

 

Q. Which job is best for Indians in Malaysia?

Industries like Finance, Tourism, Healthcare and Information and communication technology have a high demand for skilled professionals in Malaysia.  This is a great opportunity for Indian working professionals in these fields to apply for jobs in Malaysia from India in 2024. 

 

Q. Does Malaysia need IELTS for a job?

As a foreign national, English language tests proving your proficiency in English are necessary for job applications. Malaysia accepts both IELTS and TOEFL certificates as proof. 

 

Q. Can I directly apply for a job in Malaysia?

Yes, you can submit your job application directly for job vacancies in Malaysia for Indians either on the company’s official websites, online job portals or to the recruiters. 

 

Q. How to get a job in Malaysia from India without PR?

Securing a job offer in Malaysia does not require a PR. However, the candidate must obtain the appropriate Employee Pass.  

 

Q. How much can an international student earn in Malaysia?

Students are allowed to work only part-time in Malaysia. International students can earn around MYR 10,328 per month when in Malaysia.

 

Q. What is the age limit for working in Malaysia?

Malaysia’s minimum age for full-time employment is 15, and children between 15 and 17 are protected from hazardous work to ensure their safety. 

 

Q. Can I work for a company in Malaysia from India?

Malaysia does offer digital nomad visa for selected professionals. However, it is recommended to discuss these requirements with the hiring company for better understanding. 

 

 

Other Related Articles:

How to get a job in the USA from India

How to get a job in Canada from India

How to get a job in Australia from India

How to get a job in the UK from India

How to get a job in London from India

How to get a job in Germany from India

How to get a job in Ireland from India

How to get a job in Singapore from India

 

Disclaimers:

This article is intended for informational purposes only. All details are accurate at the time of publishing. Instarem has no affiliation or relationship with the products or vendors mentioned.

* Fast meaning 75% of our transactions are completed in 15 minutes. Depending on the funding method.

#When it comes to affordable exchange rates and fees, it’s worth noting that the cost will vary depending on how you choose to fund your transactions. Credit card funding and bank transfer fees can differ significantly. 

 

Citations : 

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Instarem stands at the forefront of international money transfer services, facilitating fast and secure transactions for both individuals and businesses. Our platform offers competitive exchange rates for popular currency pairs like USD to INR, SGD to INR, and AUD to INR. If you're looking to send money to India or transfer funds to any of 60+ global destinations, Instarem makes it easy for you. We are dedicated to simplifying cross-border payments, providing cutting-edge technology that support individuals and businesses alike in overcoming traditional fiscal barriers normally associated with banks. As a trusted and regulated brand under the umbrella of the Fintech Unicorn Nium Pte. Ltd., and its international subsidiaries, Instarem is your go-to for reliable global financial exchanges. Learn more about Instarem.

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