17 July 2024
Trends in the Recruitment and Job Placement Market in Malaysia, April-June 2024
Malaysia: From Credential-based to Skill-based Hiring
Number of job offers YOY:100%
Number of job openings YOY (past 3 years):
2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | ||||||||
Jul - Sep | Oct - Dec | Jan - Mar | Apr - Jun | Jul - Sep | Oct - Dec | Jan - Mar | Apr - Jun | Jul - Sep | Oct - Dec | Jan - Mar | Apr - Jun |
95% | 104% | 105% | 105% | 131% | 61% | 132% | 78% | 111% | 87% | 118% | 88% |
<Market Overview in Malaysia>
Despite global economic challenges, the Malaysian economy has demonstrated resilience, maintaining a high GDP growth rate in 2024. This momentum has been supported by a favourable labour market environment, a robust financial sector, and high national savings. While the manufacturing sector has not seen significant changes, signs of improvement are beginning to emerge.
<Local Hiring Trends among Companies in Malaysia>
In Malaysia, since the government announced its goal in 2005 to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 45% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, various incentives related to renewable energy have been introduced. As a result, more companies are integrating corporate social responsibility (CSR) into their hiring strategies. Additionally, there is active investment in data centres, digital transformation, and automation technologies. Skills related to artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are in high demand, prompting companies to shift their focus from traditional qualifications to specific skill sets.
<Job-Seeker Trends in Malaysia>
Competitive benefits, work-life balance, and a supportive workplace environment are key factors for job seekers. Remote work is expected to continue as an increasing option. As skills are becoming more valued over traditional qualifications, skill enhancement programs play a crucial role in bridging the skill gap and strengthening the workforce. Job seekers highly regard companies that offer such initiatives. Organisations that prioritise improving the overall employee experience are establishing a positive brand reputation.
JAC Recruitment Malaysia Managing Director
Nick Taylor
■JAC Recruitment Malaysia Overview
https://www.jacgroup.com/en/locations/country/malaysia
■JAC Recruitment Malaysia Website
https://www.jac-recruitment.my/
【JAC Recruitment Asia: Job Listing Comparison Report (Previous Quarter and YOY)】
Change from previous period (Jan-Mar) | Year-on-year comparison | |
Singapore | 85% | 79% |
Malaysia | 88% | 100% |
Thailand | 86% | 71% |
Indonesia | 85% | 77% |
Vietnam | 92% | 75% |
Korea | 104% | 81% |
India | 157% | 138% |
Japan(*) | 99% | 91% |
*Recruitment Related to Overseas Operations of Japanese Companies
Note: The number of job openings in each Asian country may fluctuate due to deliberate strategies implemented by individual Asian companies (such as focusing on high-paying job openings or specialist positions). Therefore, changes in the number of job openings in each Asian country do not directly reflect the performance of each company.