KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) is urging flexibility in implementing the revised Expatriate Employment Policy, set to take effect on June 1, 2026, especially for companies handling specialised roles and long-term talent transitions.
The revised policy introduces higher salary thresholds, defined employment durations, and succession planning requirements.
MICCI president Christina Tee pointed out that for roles that require specialised expertise or regional experience, localisation takes time and cannot always align with fixed policy timelines.
"A more flexible, case-by-case approach allows businesses to manage this transition responsibly, ensuring continuity while supporting meaningful knowledge transfer to local talent over time,” she said.
MICCI opined that implementation should take into account sector-specific realities, as succession timelines can vary depending on the complexity of the role.
Developing local successors for specialised or leadership positions may require longer timeframes, and a more tailored approach will be important to ensure effective capability transfer, it said.
The chamber further noted that efficient and predictable processes will be critical, particularly as the policy applies to both new and renewal applications from June 1, 2026.
"Clear timelines and streamlined approvals will support better workforce planning and reduce uncertainty for businesses managing ongoing operations.
"Ultimately, how the policy is applied in practice will determine its effectiveness, particularly as businesses plan workforce transitions, project timelines, and long-term investments in Malaysia," it added. - Bernama
