Are you looking for a good job in Southeast Asia? Do you want a stable career with good growth? Malaysia is a great place for workers from other countries in manufacturing. Many factories in Malaysia are growing fast because of changes in world supply chains. This means there are many jobs for general factory workers, machine operators, and production helpers.
The good news is that in 2025, Malaysia has raised the minimum wage to RM1,700 per month for most workers. Many employers give free housing and you can earn more with overtime. This can help you save money and have a better life. This guide will tell you all you need to know about finding a factory job, getting the right visa, and earning good money in 2025.
Top Factory Roles & Specialized Skills
Malaysia has many different factories. Some make high-tech things like computer chips in Penang. Others make food or gloves in Selangor. To get a good job, look on websites like JobStreet or Indeed. Here are some common jobs that need workers from overseas:
Popular Factory Jobs
- Production or Assembly Operator: This is the main job in electronics and car factories. You put parts together on a line.
- Machine Operator: You run big machines. You need to know basic skills about machines.
- Quality Control (QC) Assistant: You check if products are good and clean. This is important in glove factories like Top Glove or Hartalega.
- Warehouse or Storekeeper Assistant: You handle goods and stock for big companies like Shopee or Lazada.
- Packing and Labeling Worker: You pack products and put labels. There is high need in food and daily goods factories.
These jobs do not need high education. Many want workers who are hardworking, can follow rules, and learn fast. If you have experience in a factory before, it helps a lot. Basic English or Malay language is good for talking with bosses.
Many factories train new workers. So even if you are new, you can start and learn on the job. Overseas workers from countries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, and Vietnam often get these jobs.
2025 Visa & Legal Framework: The PLKS Process
To work in Malaysia as a foreign worker, you need the right papers. The government controls this through the Ministry of Human Resources and Immigration Department.
Important Documents You Need
- PLKS (Pas Lawatan Kerja Sementara): This is your work pass. It is also called Temporary Employment Visit Pass. It lasts 12 months and you can renew it many times.
- VDR (Visa With Reference): This is an approval letter. Your employer gets it first. You need it before you come to Malaysia.
- Calling Visa: This is a sticker in your passport. You get it from the Malaysian Embassy in your home country.
- FWCMS: This is an online system. Your employer uses it to apply and check your medical tests.
The process starts with your employer. They apply for quota to hire foreign workers. Then they apply for VDR. After approval, you do medical check in your country. If pass, you get calling visa and fly to Malaysia. On arrival, you do another medical (FOMEMA). Then you get the PLKS sticker.
In 2025, rules are strict to protect workers. Only approved agencies can help. Do not pay big money to bad agents.
Tips for Visa
Make sure your passport has more than 18 months left. You must be healthy and not have certain diseases.
2025 Labor Law: Salaries, Overtime & Benefits
2025 is a good year for worker rights in Malaysia. The government makes sure factories follow laws for fair pay and good living.
Salary & Earnings Breakdown
Here is a simple table for pay in 2025:
| Component | 2025 Rate (RM) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Monthly Salary | RM 1,700 | About $385 |
| Hourly Overtime (Normal Day) | About RM 12.25 | About $2.80 |
| Public Holiday Overtime | Triple pay | Triple normal |
Many workers do overtime and earn more than RM2,000 or RM3,000 a month. Some factories have shifts with extra pay.
Mandatory Benefits for Overseas Workers
- Free Accommodation: Employers must give hostel. It has to be safe, clean, and not too crowded.
- SOCSO (Perkeso): This is insurance. It pays if you get hurt at work.
- FOMEMA Medicals: You do health check when you arrive and every year.
- Levy & Fees: The employer pays the government levy. Good employers do not charge you for visa or recruitment.
Laws say no big deductions from your salary. You get paid on time every month.
Overtime Rules
Overtime is voluntary but many do it for more money. Normal day overtime is 1.5 times normal rate. Rest day is 2 times. Holiday is 3 times.
High-Demand Hubs: Where the Jobs Are
Some areas in Malaysia have many factories. Go to these places for more job chances.
Top Locations
- Penang (Bayan Lepas & Batu Kawan): Called “Silicon Valley of the East”. Many big companies like Intel, Micron make chips and electronics.
- Selangor (Shah Alam & Klang): Big for food, drinks, and logistics. Companies like Nestlé and Panasonic.
- Johor (Near Singapore border): Huge area for electronics and chemicals.
- Kedah (Kulim Hi-Tech Park): Growing fast for new energy and tech factories.
These places have many hostels and food for workers. Transport is easy.
Why These Areas?
They have industrial parks with thousands of jobs. Many overseas workers live there.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying
Here is how to get a factory job in Malaysia:
- Check Your Passport: It must have at least 18 months left.
- Find Good Agency: Use only licensed agencies. Check if they have JTKSM license.
- Do Medical Check: Pass FOMEMA or GAMCA in your country.
- Prepare for Interview: Show you are strong, can work hard, and speak basic English.
- Wait for Approval: Employer applies for visa.
- Come to Malaysia: Fly and do final checks.
- Start Work: Get training and begin.
It can take 2-4 months. Be patient and careful with money.
Many workers say Malaysia is good because of steady job, free house, and chance to send money home.
Extra Tips
- Learn some Malay words. It helps.
- Save money from overtime.
- Follow factory safety rules.
Interactive: Is Malaysia Right for You?
Think about your skills. Do you like factory work? Can you live away from home?
Which job do you like most? Electronics, Food, or Gloves?
Ask questions in comments for updates on jobs from big companies.
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Disclaimer:
This information is for learning only. Always check official government websites or your employer for latest rules before you apply.