With increasing globalization, more companies are looking to hire staff overseas. As an economic hub in Southeast Asia, Malaysia's human resources have garnered much attention. However, overseas employers need to consider how to best hire and utilize Malaysian employees. This article outlines the advantages of Malaysian staff and important considerations.
Benefits of Malaysian Employees
1. Diverse Cultural Backgrounds
Malaysia is a multicultural country comprised of Malays, Chinese, Indians and more. This exposes Malaysian employees to greater adaptability and inclusiveness to integrate into various cultural environments.
2. Language Skills
With three official languages - Malay, Mandarin and English, Malaysians tend to have strong language and communication abilities to connect with global colleagues.
3. Quality Education
Malaysia has a top-tier education system with globally renowned universities and research institutions. This equips Malaysian staff with superior expertise and competencies for various roles.
4. Lower Labor Costs
Compared to developed countries, labor costs in Malaysia are relatively low. This provides employers with flexibility in compensation packages while better controlling costs.
Key Considerations When Hiring Malaysians
1. Understanding Local Laws
Before hiring, employers must understand and comply with regulations like maximum 48 hour work weeks and overtime pay requirements.
2. Respecting Cultural Customs
When collaborating with Malaysian staff, employers should understand and respect local customs like etiquette and deference to elders.
3. Providing Adequate Training and Support
Employers should provide proper training and support to help employees adapt to new environments and roles. Employee welfare and rights should also be addressed to maximize potential.
4. Establishing Strong Communication Channels
Robust communication channels should be created to ensure accurate information flow. Employee feedback should also be actively sought and addressed promptly.
Case Study Example
A multinational successfully hired Malaysian employees by first researching local regulations and customs. Adequate training and support were provided while strong communication channels kept close engagement. This built good relations and led to local market success.
In summary, hiring Malaysians has many advantages but key considerations like legal compliance, cultural awareness and communication must be noted, in order to fully utilize their strengths and succeed.