MEF: Expectations, flexibility spur exits
PETALING JAYA: Recruitment and employer data show that young workers often change jobs within 18 months of starting a new one, says the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF).
“A significant share plan to resign within a year, reflecting a strong job-switching trend among Gen Z and millennials in the Malaysian labour market,” said its president Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman.
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Based on MEF’s observations, he said, voluntary turnover among employees in their 20s remains relatively higher compared to other age groups.
“This trend is more noticeable after the year-end bonus period,” he said when contacted.
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Such a practice, Syed Hussain said, had become more pronounced in recent years.
He attributed this to greater labour mobility, particularly in urban areas and growth sectors such as services, digital, retail and logistics.
“There are also heightened expectations for faster career progression, flexibility and meaningful work,” said Syed Hussain.
Another factor, he said, is the increased transparency of job opportunities, driven by digital recruitment platforms and social media.
However, the trend is not uniform across all industries.
“Sectors with clearer career pathways, structured training and strong engagement practices tend to experience lower attrition even among younger employees,” he said.
Syed Hussain pointed out that it is “increasingly common” to see young employees switch jobs, listing out an array of reasons.
“There may be a mismatch between expectations and reality of the job or workplace culture, limited career progression, a desire for faster skills acquisition and greater emphasis on work-life balance and flexibility.”
Although MEF recognises that some degree of mobility is natural, especially early in one’s career, “excessive short-term switches may hinder long-term employability, as employers increasingly value depth of experience alongside breadth,” he said.
Syed Hussain advised young Malaysians to evaluate learning opportunities, not just salary increments, when considering a job change.
“Stay long enough to build meaningful skills, credibility and professional references; communicate openly with employers about career aspirations,” said Syed Hussain.
He also suggests workers invest in continuous upskilling, including digital, technical and soft skills, to enhance employability.
“Youths must understand that early career growth often involves patience, resilience and gradual progression.”
