Urgent: More SPM Leavers Becoming Unskilled Workers – Malaysia Falling Further Behind Singapore

Did You Know…

In recent years, a growing number of SPM graduates have been entering the job market directly after completing their secondary education. This trend is highlighted by a 2019 report from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), which found that 72.1% of SPM graduates did not wish to further their studies. Many of these young individuals are drawn to opportunities in the gig economy or aspire to become social media influencers, reflecting a shift in career aspirations and a belief that higher education may not necessarily lead to better job prospects.

Unfortunately, even if it appears to be a fast and practical path to financial success, this has increased the number of unskilled workers in Malaysia.

Why does this matter?

When put in context, Singapore has an over 54.7% skilled labor force, which includes individuals with at least a diploma or higher qualifications, relative to Malaysia's 24.7% skilled labor force. In addition, a significant portion of Malaysians are moving abroad to neighbouring countries like Singapore and Brunei for better opportunities, further underscoring the nation’s brain drain. This thus leaves a significant gap in the supply and demand for skilled and qualified workers within the country, forcing employers to seek international expertise.

So, is entering the workforce right after completing your SPM really the right move?

The Reality of Entering the Job Market After SPM

For many SPM graduates, there is a strong urge to get out into the world and earn money immediately, and there’s nothing wrong with that!

However, entering the workforce without further education typically means starting in low-paying, unskilled jobs. For example, a general labourer or retail assistant might earn a starting salary of around RM1,500 to RM2,000 per month. In contrast, a fresh graduate with a degree could expect to start with a salary ranging from RM2,412 to RM3,500 per month, depending on the industry and location. For instance, IT roles often start at RM3,500 to RM5,000 per month, as inferred from Jobstreet. 

According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, nearly 80% of jobs in the country require skilled workers, yet the supply of qualified individuals falls short. 

This disparity can lead to job insecurity and limited career progression for those who start working right after SPM.

For many of us, it isn’t easy giving up a few years of income to pursue higher education. So what is the best compromise?

Engaging and Impactful Study Experience

Despite popular belief, online and part-time study programmes are not just about flexibility – they provide a rich and engaging learning experience just as much as the “traditional” university experience does! Students can participate in forums, collaborate on group projects, and interact with peers from around the world. 

These interactions enhance learning by exposing students to diverse viewpoints and real-world applications, making the experience as impactful and fulfilling as traditional classroom settings. Through these programmes, you’ll build a global network, enriching your academic and professional journey.

All while being able to keep your job and earn an income!

Universities Catering to Working Adults

Several Malaysian universities are leading the way in providing flexible education options tailored to working adults. Here are a few notable ones: 

Open University Malaysia (OUM): OUM is renowned for its flexible scheduling of classes and provides a range of online and part-time undergraduate programs. Students have access to a wide range of study materials and tools through MyInspire, its comprehensive learning management system and study portal (LMS).  OUM offers 100% online learning with zero classroom attendance required, ensuring maximum flexibility.

Management and Science University (MSU): To accommodate hectic schedules, MSU provides programs tailored for working professionals with limited weekend classes. If you're looking to experience university life with some weekend classroom attendance, MSU is the place for you. Most of the programs for working adults are delivered online, requiring only occasional classroom attendance, which offers a great balance for those wanting to maintain that university feel while managing their professional commitments.

Wawasan Open University (WOU): WOU stands as a pioneering institution in Malaysia, thoughtfully tailored for working professionals. It's the first university in the country to fully integrate AI across all its programs, allowing students to develop the necessary skills for the future workforce. This integration involves the use of AI to personalize learning experiences and streamline course delivery, ensuring that WOU graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of modern job markets. Additionally, WOU is unique among institutions for working adults as it offers online engineering degrees, a rare offering that allows students to pursue in-demand technical skills alongside their careers

SEGi University: SEGi offers the flexibility that working students require with their blended learning strategy, which blends in-person and virtual instruction. Whether you're interested in business, IT, healthcare, arts, or even more niche fields, there are numerous programmes designed to suit your career goals. Various popular universities offer diverse programmes ranging from undergraduate to postgraduate levels, ensuring that no matter your interest, there is a course that fits your tastes and situation. 

The trend of SPM leavers entering the workforce immediately poses a significant challenge for Malaysia’s future. 

But now, with the help of online and part-time education options, young Malaysians can simultaneously master the skills required for long-term professional success and strive towards financial independence thanks to technological improvements. 

SPM graduates who invest in their education stand to gain more in life and help close Malaysia's skills gap, which will keep the country competitive in the global economy. 

Now is the moment to take advantage of these chances and create a career path that will lead to success and fulfilment.