What Is the Average Salary in Malaysia? Latest Insights and Data

Malaysia's rapid and inclusive economic growth over the past five decades has brought it close to achieving high-income status. Domestic demand continues to drive the economy, with exports rebounding as external demand strengthens. Despite global challenges, Malaysia’s economy has remained resilient, with inflation well-managed.

Ranked fourth among Southeast Asian nations, Malaysia boasts an average salary of RM6,610, according to a study by Time Champ reported by Tempo. Salary Explorer further supported it by citing that the nation’s highest average salary reaches RM29,400, while the lowest is RM1,670.

Median salary according to DOSM

As of March 2024, Malaysia’s labor force consists of just over 16 million workers, including employers, employees, self-employed individuals, and unpaid family workers. In 2023, DOSM began reporting formal sector wages quarterly, using administrative data from the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), Social Security Organization (SOCSO), and DOSM itself. This data covers over 6 million employees, representing around 60% of Malaysia's formal workforce. 

Key wage data for March 2024 shows the median monthly salary for workers across Malaysia stands at RM2,844, with Kuala Lumpur notably higher at RM4,256.

The distribution of wages highlights a stark contrast in earnings, with the majority of workers earning below RM3,000 per month:

Source: OpenDOSM, data as of Sept 2024

Average salary by years of experience

According to a 2024 report by SalaryExplorer, the wage increase tied to experience is clear across various industries in Malaysia. As employees gain more experience, their earning potential increases significantly, with the largest salary jumps occurring within the first 10 to 15 years of a professional’s career. 

Below are key insights into salary growth based on years of experience:

• 2 to 5 years of experience: Employees in this range typically earn 32% more than entry-level or junior workers.
• 5 to 10 years of experience: Professionals with more than five years of experience tend to see a 36% salary increase.
• 10 to 15 years of experience: After a decade of work, salaries rise by 21%, rewarding professionals for their expertise and ability to take on higher responsibility roles.
• 15 to 20 years of experience: Employees who have been in the workforce for over 15 years typically enjoy a further 14% boost in their salaries. At this stage, professionals often occupy senior or managerial roles, which command higher compensation.
• 20+ years of experience: For employees with more than 20 years of experience, salaries continue to grow, albeit at a slower pace, with an average increase of 9%.

These percentages represent general trends, but specific job roles, industries, and locations may influence actual salary increments. Nonetheless, for many professionals, their salaries often double by the time they reach the 10-year milestone in their careers.

Average salary by education

According to 2024 labor statistics, professionals with higher educational qualifications tend to earn more than their peers with the same level of work experience but lower educational attainment. Here’s a breakdown of average salary increases based on education level:

• Employees with a certificate or diploma earn 17% more than those who only have a high school diploma.
• Those with a Bachelor’s Degree see a 24% increase in salary compared to certificate or diploma holders.
• Professionals with a Master’s Degree earn 29% more than their peers with just a Bachelor’s Degree.
• Individuals with a Ph.D. typically command the highest salaries, earning 23% more than those with a Master’s Degree in the same roles.

The relationship between education and salary, however, varies depending on the field and location. These averages represent trends across multiple industries and job titles. For more specific figures, one should look at data for particular job roles or industries.

Is Pursuing Higher Education Worth It?

Investing in advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or MBA, can be a substantial financial commitment in Malaysia. During this time, professionals may not see significant salary increases until they complete their degree, as salary reviews often occur after obtaining new qualifications.

However, higher education is often a pathway to transitioning into higher-paying roles. Studies show that individuals who switch jobs after earning a higher degree receive a salary increase of about 10% beyond the usual annual raise.

Ultimately, the decision to pursue advanced education should factor in personal circumstances, career goals, and financial capacity. For those who can manage the financial cost, the potential to recoup these expenses within a year of obtaining a degree makes it an attractive option for long-term career growth.

Average salary by job role

To provide a comprehensive overview of salary expectations in Malaysia, we have compiled data from various trusted sources, including Michael Page, JobStreet, Randstad, and Robert Walters.

These insights help illustrate the typical salary ranges for several in-demand job roles across different experience levels and sectors. 

Accounting & Finance

Human Resources

Sales & Marketing

Tech & Transformation

Engineering & Manufacturing

Supply Chain & Procurement

Legal & Corporate Secretarial

Average salary by location

The average salary in Malaysia differs significantly depending on the location. According to data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), urban areas like Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang tend to offer higher salaries compared to rural regions. This disparity is largely driven by the higher cost of living, increased demand for specialized skills, and concentration of industries in metropolitan areas. However, in rural areas, while salaries are generally lower, the cost of living is also more affordable, allowing for a different standard of living.

Below is a breakdown of the 2022 mean household income and mean expenditure in different states of Malaysia:

Source: DOSM 

Average annual salary increments

Salaries in Malaysia are projected to increase by 5% across all industries in 2025, according to Mercer's latest Total Remuneration Survey. This projection aligns with the 5% increase seen in 2023, indicating stable salary growth despite evolving economic conditions. Key industries such as energy and shared services are expected to see the highest salary increments, reflecting increased demand for skilled professionals in these sectors. Conversely, industries like financial services and transportation are projected to experience more modest salary growth, at 4.8% and 4.1%, respectively.

Beyond private sector trends, Malaysia’s public sector salaries are set for a major adjustment, with the government implementing significant pay hikes for civil servants starting December 2024. The new public service compensation scheme includes salary increases of 7% for top management roles and up to 15% for professional and executive positions. These changes will result in an overall increase of 16.8% to 42.7% in public sector salaries, setting a new benchmark for wage growth in Malaysia.

Regionally, Malaysia’s 5% projected salary increase sits higher than Singapore’s 4.1% increment, making it a competitive labor market in Southeast Asia. Malaysia's talent market remains strong, with employers actively adjusting salaries to retain and attract skilled professionals amid global economic uncertainties. While inflation and cost-of-living concerns persist, salary increments are expected to remain stable, ensuring that employees benefit from real wage growth in the coming year.

Average performance bonuses

2024 continues to be a positive year for employees, with 88% of Malaysian companies increasing salaries and 80% awarding performance-based bonuses as part of their compensation strategies. Performance bonuses remain the most common type of incentive, with an average payout of 1.7 months’ salary, maintaining the trend from previous years. This consistency reflects employers' ongoing commitment to reward performance and retain key talent, even as businesses navigate economic uncertainties.

A study by Mercer highlights that performance bonuses not only boost employee retention but also enhance productivity, as they create a stronger link between contributions and financial rewards. Employers increasingly use variable pay structures to align incentives with business outcomes, ensuring that employees are recognized for their impact on company performance.

This trend signals a clear shift towards a results-driven reward system, where performance-based bonuses play a crucial role in motivating employees and maintaining competitiveness in Malaysia’s job market. As firms continue to adapt to evolving workforce expectations, performance bonuses remain a key tool for attracting and retaining top talent.

Cost of Living in Malaysia

For a single person living in Malaysia, particularly in cities like Kuala Lumpur or Penang, the average monthly cost typically ranges from RM3,000 to RM5,000, depending on lifestyle and location. 

Managing these expenses effectively requires balancing everyday living costs with long-term savings and investments. 

Accommodation Costs

Housing is a significant expense. For instance, renting a two-bedroom apartment in Kuala Lumpur may cost around RM2,000 per month, while in cities like Johor Bahru, similar accommodations might be priced at RM1,500. This difference can impact budgeting for those relocating to urban centres.

Utilities and Internet

On average, utilities such as electricity, water, and internet add up to about RM350 per month. These costs are fairly consistent across different regions in Malaysia.

Transportation Expenses

Public transportation is an affordable option, with the My50 travel pass offering unlimited rides for just RM50 a month. However, car ownership can significantly increase monthly expenses by an additional RM600 for fuel and maintenance.

Food and Provisions

Grocery and dining expenses can range from RM700 per month, depending on lifestyle choices. While food prices in Kuala Lumpur may be slightly higher, the wide variety of affordable local cuisine helps balance out costs.

Healthcare and Insurance

Health insurance typically costs between RM150 to RM300 monthly, depending on coverage. It’s important to assess both the cost and accessibility of healthcare services in different regions.

Miscellaneous and Entertainment:

For leisure activities and unforeseen expenses, allocating about RM500 a month is a reasonable estimate, though this can vary based on personal preferences.

All and all, this works out to be a whopping RM3,900!

Tips for Maximising Your Salary in Malaysia

Increasing your salary starts with self-improvement and consistently demonstrating value to your employer. Before asking for a raise, it’s essential to focus on strategies that showcase your growth and contribution to the company. Here are some effective ways to position yourself for a salary increase:

1. Acquire New Qualifications: Expanding your skill set makes you a more valuable employee. By gaining additional qualifications, you strengthen your case for a salary raise and increase your chances of promotions. Formal training not only enhances your practical skills but also provides theoretical knowledge, making you a more versatile asset to your organisation.
2. Maintain High Performance: Consistency is key when it comes to earning more. After receiving a raise, continue exceeding expectations and delivering exceptional results. Consistently good performance helps reinforce your value, making future salary negotiations easier, and elevates your professional reputation.
3. Take on More Responsibilities: Volunteering for extra duties shows your readiness for growth and signals to management that you’re capable of handling more. Taking on new tasks provides a solid foundation for salary discussions and could open doors to more senior roles within the company.
4. Earn a Stellar Performance Review: A strong performance review highlights your contributions and places you in a favorable position to request a salary increase. A great review emphasizes your value and supports your case for higher compensation.
5. Seek Regular Feedback: Proactively ask for feedback from your managers to understand where you excel and what areas need improvement. Continuous feedback allows you to align your performance with company expectations, making your raise request more compelling when the time comes.
6. Understand Your Role Fully: Before discussing a raise, ensure you clearly understand your role and the company’s expectations. Compare your duties with what’s required and identify areas for improvement. Mastering your responsibilities and adding unique value that no one else can offer puts you in a strong position to negotiate for a raise.

By following these strategies, you can build a solid case for salary growth and ensure your contributions are recognized and rewarded.

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