The View

The future

of work

for

Malaysia’s

fresh grads

Amid an evolving landscape, the success of work for fresh graduates in Malaysia hinges on more than just academic know-how.

By Professor Dr. Kamila Ghazali, Vice-Chancellor, International University of Malaya-Wales (IUMW)

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Jobs and the world of work are changing. For a fresh graduate in Malaysia, the journey into the job market has become a dynamic and multifaceted endeavour, where the path to success is not as clear-cut as it once was. This raises one key question: how can Malaysian graduates excel in this evolving job market?

The shifting landscape of work

The traditional career path has given way to new opportunities, fuelled by technological advancements and globalisation. Automation and artificial intelligence are reshaping industries. A 2020 study from the World Economic Forum1 paints a striking picture: by 2025, machines may handle more than half of all workplace tasks, with talk of AI, robotics and automation replacing 85 million jobs and creating 97 million new roles. It is a revolution demanding adaptability, the adoption of new technologies and a skill set that reaches beyond the bounds of a graduate's core discipline.

Job competition has also intensified with the surge of remote work and globalisation. Companies cast their nets wide, drawing talent from across the globe. In this new era, embracing change is crucial to long-term success.

In response to this transformative landscape, Malaysia's Prime Minister in July this year introduced the ‘MADANI Economy Framework’ to position the nation as a leading Asian economic powerhouse2. Central to this initiative is the development of a highly adaptable and skilled workforce. This shift in focus underscores the importance of continuous learning, upskilling and reskilling. Companies are looking to address talent gaps and foster a workforce that not only embraces but actively drives change.

Beyond discipline-specific knowledge

The evolving landscape underscores the critical need to nurture a broader skill set beyond one's core discipline. Today's employers seek graduates with a broader perspective and a range of competencies. This multifaceted approach enhances the graduate's value in the job market and prepares them for the collaborative nature of modern workplaces. The ability to wear multiple hats will set the graduates of today apart.

The 'Skills for the Workforce of the Future Conference 2023', hosted by Universiti Malaya in August, offered invaluable insights3. Hard skills including analytical thinking, innovation and critical analysis form a strong foundation for workplace success. Soft skills such as communication, leadership problem-solving and adaptability are equally crucial, and often overlooked.

Regardless of their field, graduates must recognise the value of a broader skill set, including proficiency in analysis, project management and even technological skills in fields such as AI and Big Data. The imperative for continuous upskilling and reskilling to navigate technological shifts and engage in lifelong learning cannot be overstated.

Recent LinkedIn data tells us that hard skills can help you get a recruiter's attention, but soft skills can help you land the job4. Even more crucial is consistently refining and maintaining these skills - this keeps you competitive and safeguards your career for the future.

Graduates who master this nuanced blend are positioned as indispensable assets, playing pivotal roles in shaping the modern workplace. Ultimately, success in today's rapidly changing job market demands a balanced blend of technical prowess and adaptable soft skills.

"The future of work for fresh graduates in Malaysia is not a fixed destination, but a dynamic journey into an ever-evolving reality."

Maximising the university experience

In an era of ongoing debate about the value of traditional degrees, it is crucial to recognise that higher education equips graduates with numerous essential skills. University is not only a path to a degree. Beyond the lecture halls and textbooks lies endless potential, making it prime time for students to develop skills, build credentials and establish a network for future success.

Scholar Ben Wildavsky (2021) highlights the importance of strategic course selection, efficient time management, and career-aligned extracurricular activities in his book, The Career Arts5. Balancing academic rigour with personal growth is vital for a well-rounded education. Maintaining a commendable CGPA, seeking internships or research positions and earning relevant certifications enhance marketability in a competitive job market. And never underestimate the power of connection; the networks forged in these formative years can be the cornerstone of future success. Students should understand the importance of social capital, viewing the professional relationships and connections they build during their university years as valuable assets for future career growth and personal development.

The onus is not solely on the institution; fresh graduates must seize every opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Embracing the future

The future of work for fresh graduates in Malaysia is not a fixed destination, but a dynamic journey into an ever-evolving reality. It invites graduates to embrace change as a constant companion. As we stand on the brink of this new era, it is clear that success hinges on more than just academic know-how.

It is not just about the 'what' of specialised knowledge; it is about the 'how' of adaptable skills. By adopting this multifaceted approach, students are not merely job seekers; they are shaping their success in what promises to be an ever-changing and ever-promising future.

References

  1. World Economic Forum. (2020). The Future of Jobs Report 2020.
  2. Anwar Ibrahim, D. S. (2023, July). Ekonomi MADANI: Memperkasa Rakyat [Speech transcript]. Malaysia.
  3. Ministry of Economy [Department of Statistics]. (August 2023). Analyzing the State of the Workforce in Malaysia [Presentation]. AKEPT Global Series: Skills for the Workforce of the Future Series.
  4. LinkedIn. (2022, September). Learn Top Skills to Future-Proof Your Career.
  5. Wildavsky, B. (2021). The Career Arts: Making the Most of College, Credentials, and Connections. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.