For years, Malaysia has been experiencing an outflow of talent to other countries because millennial grads prefer to work overseas. I guess the grass is always greener on the other side?
Source: Transitioning.org
Despite losing talents, Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) executive director, Datuk Shamsuddin Bardan said that this is not entirely a bad phenomenon.
“Millennials who’s working overseas are bearing the name and pride of Malaysia. Therefore, they can boost the reputation of Malaysia(n) workers globally,” said Shamsuddin.
Moreover, those working overseas will be sending money back to their family in Malaysia which is a form of contribution.
“Those money usually will be spent locally in Malaysia,” added Shamsuddin.
According to Sinchew, it was reported that Generation Y in Malaysia compared to other countries have higher tendency to build their careers overseas especially in the financial sector.
“It’s commendable that the youngsters are actively pursuing their careers but they should recognise the reality and not get too carried away in the midst of chasing their dream,” commented Shamsuddin.
Besides, Malaysian Medical Association (MMA) also pointed out that many doctors prefer to work overseas especially in Singapore. However, there are also cases where doctors prefer to serve in Malaysia after their tenure overseas. Guess they missed the nasi lemak in Malaysia, aye?
Singapore, England, America, and Australia are the most popular countries that Malaysian professionals flock to.
Admittedly, Shamsuddin said that it’s important for Malaysian employers to come up with attractive perks and packages to retain local professionals from flocking to other countries.
Talent Corp’s Chief Executive Officer, Shareen Shariza stated that Returning Expert Programme (REP) has reached out to Malaysian professionals overseas and most of them were eagerly looking forward to returning to Malaysia.
“They hoped to assist fellow Malaysians through different channels such as advising, investing and sharing their experience,” said Shareen.
Without the professionals leading the industries, the money invested by the government would only go down the drain. Nothing much can be achieved when the blind is leading the blind.
