How to Begin Teaching in Malaysia

A Stable Country with Many Places to Explore

English teaching is in high demand in the country.

Malaysia is an interesting mix of culture and language. The indigenous tribes are mainly situated in the north and around Northern Borneo, while the Malay, Chinese, English and Indian influences are more seen on the Peninsula. Elements of Persian and Arabic cultures are also still present in the country. This is evident in the numerous festivals that are celebrated by various ethnic groups. Malaysia’s official religion is Islam and Malaysians, who consider themselves Muslim, follow the Islamic celebrations. These include the holy month of Ramadan and the Feast of Sacrifice. Malay of Chinese descent will celebrate Chinese New Year. Although Malay is the dominant cultural group, there can be tension between the Malay and Chinese groups, which can present a challenge in the classroom. Languages are also mixed with Malay, English, Chinese and Tamil among some of the languages spoken. The official language of Malaysia is Malay.

Malaysia is a stable country with many places to explore, such as the modern capital city of Kuala Lumpur, the traditional long houses in Sarawak and the heights of the Kinabula mountain range. Another possibility includes day or night-time excursions to the Borneo jungle, walking high above the trees and looking down at its vast lushness from wooden rope bridges.

Malaysia also has a rich cultural and literary heritage. This includes Malay poetry, which has influenced poetry all over the world. Malaysia is also famous for Batik printing on textiles. Malaysia has its own unique cuisine, with dishes ranging from nasi lemak to the national drink teh tarik. The people are also friendly and hospitable. They are full of fun and enjoy spending time with family and friends, sharing food together.

Teaching Opportunities

Due to the change in the government system in 2012, English was given a higher status in the state education system. English became a subject in its own right rather than being taught in connection with maths and science. This means that English teaching is in high demand in the country. Prospective EFL teachers also have many options to teach in Malaysia. These include private language schools and state school options. However, unlike places such as Cambodia, the key to securing a job in Malaysia is experience; being a native speaker is no longer enough. You will also need to have a degree and at least a 120-hour TEFL certificate. This is also due to the local competition from Malaysians who are amply qualified to teach the subject. When searching for employees, schools and agencies prefer face-to-face interviews in the country. Once you have obtained a job, work dress is also an important consideration. This might mean that in some school situations you might need to dress more conservatively than you are accustomed to.

Teaching Requirements

Degree Requirement	Typical Contract Length	Peak Hiring Seasons	Visa Info	Typical Students	Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency	Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

BA/BS required

12 months

All year round

Tourist visa convert to work visa

Business professionals, children

2,000 - 6,400 MYR (400 - 1,250 GBP)

3,000 - 9,000 MYR (550 - 1,750 GBP)

Degree Requirement

BA/BS required

Typical Contract Length

12 months

Peak Hiring Seasons

All year round

Visa Info

Tourist visa convert to work visa

Typical Students

Business professionals, children

Average Monthly Cost of Living in £ GBP & Local Currency

2,000 - 6,400 MYR (400 - 1,250 GBP)

Average Monthly Salary in £ GBP & Local Currency

3,000 - 9,000 MYR (550 - 1,750 GBP)

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