Youth Unemployment in Malaysia: A Maze of Hidden Opportunities
In Petaling Jaya, the Union Network International-Malaysia Labour Centre (UNI-MLC) has raised concerns about the growing issue of youth unemployment. According to UNI-MLC president Shafie BP Mammal, the problem is not a lack of talent but rather a lack of visibility when it comes to job vacancies. He emphasized that young Malaysians are graduating into a complex system where opportunities are scattered and difficult to access.
Shafie explained that job vacancies are often found across various platforms such as private portals, WhatsApp groups, and closed networks. Some positions are never advertised at all, which he described as an unfair system. “Youths should not be made to guess where the jobs are,” he said, highlighting the need for a more transparent approach.
The current youth unemployment rate stands at approximately 9.9% for those aged 15 to 24, affecting over 290,000 young Malaysians. For those aged 15 to 30, the unemployment rate is 6.2%. These figures reflect what many families already know—many young people are struggling to find stable work despite their efforts.
“Parents are seeing it in their own homes. Their children apply everywhere yet cannot secure stable work, and they don’t know whether opportunities are being missed simply because information is fragmented,” Shafie noted.
To address this issue, a proposed amendment to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800) aims to introduce Section 45F. This section would require employers to notify vacancies on the government’s MYFutureJobs portal. Shafie believes this measure will create a single national reference point, ensuring that every graduate knows where to look for job opportunities.
“Employers can still use JobStreet or LinkedIn; no one is stopping that. But MYFutureJobs becomes the baseline. It is the one place where Malaysians know the vacancies must be visible. That visibility protects young workers,” he explained.
He also pointed out that this reform aligns with global standards, as the International Labour Organization emphasizes the importance of transparent vacancy information as part of worker protection. “A modern labour system must be active, fair and open,” Shafie said, expressing UNI-MLC’s full support for this principle.
The organization is prepared to collaborate with the authorities and employers to ensure a smooth transition. “This amendment (to Act 800) is not to burden employers. We are here to make sure Malaysian families are not shut out from opportunities because vacancies are hidden,” he added.
Shafie urged the government to remain committed to the policy despite calls for a moratorium. “We urge the government to remain firm and stay the course. The long-term gains for workers are clear and compelling, and there is no need for a moratorium. A modern labour system means vacancies are visible and fair, not hidden and selective,” he concluded.
Key Points
- Fragmented Job Market: Job vacancies are scattered across different platforms, making it difficult for young Malaysians to find opportunities.
- Unemployment Rates: Youth unemployment stands at 9.9% for those aged 15 to 24, while the rate for those aged 15 to 30 is 6.2%.
- Proposed Amendment: The Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800) includes a proposal to require employers to list vacancies on the MYFutureJobs portal.
- Transparency and Fairness: The reform aims to create a single, reliable source for job vacancies, promoting fairness and accessibility.
- Global Standards: The initiative aligns with international labor principles, emphasizing the importance of transparency in job listings.
- Collaboration: UNI-MLC is ready to work with the government and employers to ensure a practical and effective implementation of the policy.
- Call to Action: Shafie urges the government to maintain its commitment to the policy, highlighting the long-term benefits for workers.