Malaysia is a vibrant Southeast Asian nation, boasting a rich cultural tapestry, stunning natural beauty, and a rapidly developing economy. It is also home to several prestigious universities that attract international students looking for quality and affordable higher education. While Malay is the national language, English is widely spoken, making communication easy for international students.
Malaysia, specifically the city of Kuala Lumpur, has been consistently voted among the most affordable places for students to study. While the cost of tuition and living in Malaysia is significantly lower than in many Western countries, international students still need to find ways to lower their expenses and have a seamless academic journey.
Working while studying in Malaysia is one of the greatest ways that international students can take advantage of to gain valuable experience, earn some extra cash, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
With that in mind, let’s look at some of the top work opportunities you can engage in as an international student in Malaysia.
Ways to Work While Studying in Malaysia
For international students in Malaysia looking for part-time work opportunities, here are some options to consider.
1. On-Campus Employment
International students are allowed to work part-time on campus while pursuing their studies in Malaysia. Jobs may include roles within the university, such as library assistants, research assistants, or administrative positions. For example, the Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation offers part-time on-campus opportunities to students including library assistants, IT labs technical assistants, programmers, multimedia developers, and Student Ambassadors.
These jobs are usually posted on the university bulletin boards or announced by department heads.
2. Off-Campus Employment
Malaysia allows international students to work part-time off-campus during semester breaks. Students are typically permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during these breaks. While there are several job options like working in restaurants, hotels, or petrol kiosks, international students are not allowed to work as cashiers, singers, masseurs, musicians, or in any job deemed to be immoral. The average pay for such jobs is MYR 10 /hr and will require you to have great communication and customer service skills.
3. Internships and Co-op Programs
Some universities and colleges in Malaysia offer internship or cooperative education (co-op) programs as part of the curriculum. These programs provide students with practical work experience related to their field of study. For example, Swinburne University of Technology offers an 8-week internship program, allowing students to gain exposure to a real work environment.
These are usually not paid roles as they are part of your program and count towards your final grade.
4. Freelancing and Online Work
Freelancing is another lucrative opportunity for international students in Malaysia to take advantage of. If you have sufficient skills in areas such as writing, graphic design, programming, or digital marketing, you can effectively explore freelancing opportunities on various online platforms such as Upwork or Fiverr. Depending on your skill level you could be paid per project or make around $25 per hour.
5. Language Tutoring
There is always an opportunity to teach languages in an institution with a diverse student body. International students with proficiency in languages such as English or other foreign languages may offer language tutoring services to other students or community members interested in learning or perfecting a new language. You can make around RM 43.94 per hour if you are offering your services in Kuala Lumpur.
FAQs: Working While Studying in Malaysia
Is there a Work-Study Program in Malaysia?
Yes, there are several work-study programs in Malaysia that permit international students studying in public or private institutions to work part-time as long as they meet the requirements set by the school and Immigration Department. Students from other universities outside Malaysia can also take part in these work-study programs, like this Malaysia Work-study Program that students from the University of Lethbridge are allowed to participate in.
This can be in the form of an internship or other work opportunity that allows you to study while working.
Can You Work in Malaysia While on A Student Visa?
Yes, you can work on a student visa in Malaysia as long as you meet the eligibility criteria like being enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate program. You are allowed to work for up to 20 hours a week on semester breaks or during holidays lasting more than seven days.
To apply for the program, you must submit your application for part-time work to the Immigration Department of Malaysia and receive prior approval. Ensure that you understand the guidelines for part-time work and submit all the requirements to increase your chances for approval. As long as your student pass remains valid, you can engage in any of the allowed part-time opportunities like restaurant jobs, and working at petrol kiosks, mini markets, and hotels.
What Are the Benefits of Working While Studying in Malaysia?
There are several benefits of working while studying at a Malaysian university. Let’s go over some of them so you can decide if it would be something to engage in or not.
Boost Finances
Working part-time will provide you an opportunity to earn additional income, helping you cover some if not all of your living expenses, accommodation, and other personal expenses. Some of the off-campus part-time jobs pay well allowing you to save towards future expenses.
Gain Work Experience
Part-time work and internships will allow you to gain practical work experience in a real-world setting. This is especially important for building your resume and enhancing future career prospects. You’ll be able to gain vital skills like teamwork, time management, and communication which you can apply in various professional settings.
Cultural Integration
Engaging in part-time work will allow you to interact with local communities, fostering cultural integration and providing a deeper understanding of the Malaysian work environment. Some roles may require you to have some knowledge of Malay, allowing you to immerse in the culture and enhancing your experience with the locals.
Malaysia is known as a top study destination for international students across the globe. Additionally, students are allowed to engage in part-time work opportunities during their studies, enabling them to earn some money, gain experience, and network with their peers. From on-campus roles to language tutoring, there is no limit to job opportunities to take advantage of. However, ensure you check with your respective university and immigration authorities to ensure compliance with visa regulations and employment guidelines.
We hope this article will serve as your guide in searching for how to earn a living while studying in Malaysia. D0 check out more valuable tips and articles on our Study in Malaysia Page! You can also browse numerous available courses across the globe on our Available Programs for International Students!
