Teach English in Malaysia: Requirements, Salary, Jobs (2024)

Teach English in Malaysia

Teaching English in Malaysia offers an enriching experience in a country known for its cultural diversity, economic dynamism, and stunning natural beauty. Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, which is reflected in its multifaceted society and traditions. This multicultural backdrop provides a vibrant environment for teachers seeking a culturally immersive experience.

Malaysia’s education system places a high emphasis on bilingualism, with English considered a key skill for global business and international relations. There is a strong demand for English teachers in both public and private schools, as well as language centers, particularly in major urban centers like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. Teachers in Malaysia often find that they can have a significant impact on their students' proficiency and future career prospects.

The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively affordable, especially outside of the main cities, allowing teachers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle. The country offers a variety of experiences, from exploring the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to relaxing on the idyllic beaches of the Perhentian Islands or trekking through the rainforests of Borneo.

Why Teach English in Malaysia?

Malaysia is an attractive destination for teaching English due to its vibrant culture, strong educational focus, and the professional opportunities available. Here are several reasons why Malaysia could be the perfect place for your teaching career:

Cultural Diversity: Malaysia’s rich tapestry of cultures offers teachers an opportunity to experience a unique blend of traditions, cuisines, and festivals. This diversity enriches the teaching experience and provides a dynamic social life outside the classroom.
Educational Priority: English is highly prioritized in Malaysia’s education system, reflecting its role in the country's aspirations for global integration. This emphasis ensures a steady demand for qualified English teachers and provides a structured environment for language education.
Professional Opportunities: With its growing economy and international business sectors, Malaysia offers numerous opportunities for career advancement in education. Teachers can find roles that allow for development in teaching, curriculum design, and educational management.
Quality of Life: Malaysia's affordable cost of living, combined with its modern amenities and natural attractions, makes it a comfortable place to live and work. Teachers can enjoy a high standard of living while exploring the country's islands, highlands, and urban centers.
Friendly Community: Malaysians are known for their hospitality and warmth, making it easy for expatriates to settle in and feel at home. The welcoming nature of the local community enhances the expatriate experience and aids in cultural integration.
Geographic Advantage: Located centrally in Southeast Asia, Malaysia serves as a strategic base for exploring the region. Its excellent transport links offer easy access to neighboring countries, making it ideal for teachers who wish to travel during holidays.

Teaching English in Malaysia not only provides a chance to contribute to the educational development of Malaysian students but also offers a life filled with cultural exploration and professional growth. This combination makes Malaysia a compelling choice for educators looking to expand their horizons in an international setting.

What are the requirements to teach English in Malaysia?

To teach English in Malaysia, you will generally need to meet the following requirements:

A bachelor's degree: Most schools in Malaysia require teachers to have a bachelor's degree in any subject.

A teaching qualification: A teaching qualification, such as a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certification, is often preferred by schools in Malaysia.

English language proficiency: You will need to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English in order to teach English in Malaysia. This may include taking a language proficiency test, such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language).

A clean criminal record: Many schools in Malaysia require teachers to undergo a background check and to provide a clean criminal record.

Work permit: If you are not a citizen of Malaysia, you will need to obtain a work permit in order to teach in the country.

It is important to note that requirements may vary depending on the specific school and location where you are seeking to teach. It is a good idea to research the specific requirements of the schools you are interested in and to start the process of obtaining any necessary qualifications and documentation as early as possible.

Do you need to speak Malay to teach English in Malaysia?

It is not generally a requirement to speak Malay in order to teach English in Malaysia. Most schools in Malaysia that hire English teachers are looking for native or near-native speakers of English, and do not require their teachers to speak Malay.

However, it is always helpful to have some basic language skills in the local language, as this can make it easier to communicate with students and colleagues and to navigate daily life in the country.

Additionally, some schools may require or prefer candidates who have some proficiency in Malay. It is a good idea to research the specific requirements of the schools you are interested in and to consider taking a course in Malay or learning some basic phrases if you are interested in teaching English in Malaysia.

What salary can you earn as an English teacher in Malaysia?

The salary that you can earn as an English teacher in Malaysia will depend on a number of factors, including your qualifications, experience, and the specific school or institution you are working for. Generally, English teachers in Malaysia can expect to earn a salary that is comparable to other English teachers in Southeast Asia.

According to data form job posts, the average salary for an English teacher in Malaysia is around MYR 3,500 to MYR 6,000 per month (Malaysian Ringgit), which is equivalent to about USD 870 to USD 1,500. This amount can vary widely depending on the specific school or institution, as well as your qualifications and experience. Some schools may offer additional benefits such as housing, airfare, and health insurance.

It is a good idea to research the specific salary and benefits offered by the schools you are interested in and to negotiate your salary and benefits package as part of the hiring process. It is also important to keep in mind that the cost of living in Malaysia is relatively low compared to many other countries, so even a modest salary can go a long way.

What is the cost of living in Malaysia?

The cost of living in Malaysia varies depending on where you live and your personal lifestyle. In general, Malaysia is considered to be a relatively affordable place to live compared to many other countries in Asia and around the world.

According to Numbeo, the average cost of living in Malaysia is lower than in many other countries in the region, such as Singapore and Hong Kong. The cost of living in Malaysia is also lower than in many Western countries.

Here are some estimates for the average cost of living in Malaysia, based on data from Numbeo:

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: MYR 1,200 to MYR 2,000 per month (Malaysian Ringgit)
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage): MYR 200 to MYR 400
Monthly transportation costs: MYR 100 to MYR 200
Monthly grocery costs: MYR 500 to MYR 1,000
Restaurant meal: MYR 10 to MYR 30

It is important to keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost of living in Malaysia will depend on your personal lifestyle and location. It is a good idea to research the specific costs in the areas where you are considering living and to create a budget based on your own needs and expenses.

The best places to teach English In Malaysia

There are many good places to teach English in Malaysia, including:

Kuala Lumpur: As the capital and largest city in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur offers a wide range of job opportunities for English teachers. There are many international schools, language schools, and private tutoring companies in Kuala Lumpur that hire native English speakers to teach English.
Penang: Penang is a popular tourist destination and a major hub for business and industry. It is a good place to find work as an English teacher due to the high demand for English language education in the region.
Johor Bahru: Johor Bahru is the second-largest city in Malaysia and is located in the southern part of the country. It is a major industrial and economic center, making it a good place to find work as an English teacher.
Kuching: Kuching is the capital of the state of Sarawak in Malaysia and is located on the island of Borneo. It is a diverse and multicultural city with a high demand for English language education, making it a good place to find work as an English teacher.
Ipoh: Ipoh is the capital of the state of Perak in Malaysia and is located in the north of the country. It is a good place to find work as an English teacher due to the high demand for English language education in the region.

Overall, the best place to teach English in Malaysia will depend on your personal preferences and priorities. Some people may prefer to live in a larger city like Kuala Lumpur or Johor Bahru, while others may prefer a more laid-back lifestyle in a smaller city or tourist destination like Penang or Kuching.

Living in Malaysia

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country located on the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo. It is bordered by Thailand to the north and Singapore to the south. The capital of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysia is a diverse country with a population of about 32 million people. It is home to a range of cultures and traditions, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous groups. The official language is Malay, but English is also widely spoken. Islam is the dominant religion in Malaysia, but the country is also home to a significant number of Buddhists, Christians, and Hindus.

Living in Malaysia can be an exciting and rewarding experience, as the country has a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and a modern infrastructure. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges that can come with living in a developing country, such as limited access to healthcare and education, and the potential for political instability.

If you are considering living in Malaysia, it is a good idea to research the cost of living and the availability of housing, healthcare, and other necessary amenities. It is also helpful to learn some basic Malay and familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions.

There are many reasons why someone might consider living in Malaysia. Some people are attracted to the country's rich cultural heritage and diverse range of traditions, while others may be drawn to the affordable cost of living or the modern infrastructure. Here are a few potential benefits of living in Malaysia:

Affordability: Malaysia is generally a more affordable place to live compared to many other countries in Asia, and the cost of living is relatively low.
Cultural diversity: Malaysia is home to a range of cultures and traditions, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous groups. This diversity is reflected in the country's food, music, art, and festivals.
Natural beauty: Malaysia is home to a variety of natural landscapes, including beaches, forests, and mountains. There are many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Modern infrastructure: Malaysia has a modern infrastructure, with good transportation and telecommunications networks, and a range of amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, and movie theaters.
English-speaking: English is widely spoken in Malaysia, which can make it easier for expats to communicate and navigate daily life in the country.

It is important to keep in mind that living in any country has its challenges, and Malaysia is no exception. It is a good idea to research the cost of living, the availability of housing and other amenities, and the political situation in Malaysia before making the decision to move there.

Some facts About Malaysia

Here are some facts about Malaysia:

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country located on the Malay Peninsula and the island of Borneo.
It is the third most populous country in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia and the Philippines.
The official language of Malaysia is Malay, but English is also widely spoken.
Malaysia has a diverse population, with many different ethnic groups including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and Indigenous peoples.
Islam is the dominant religion in Malaysia, but there is also a significant population of Buddhists, Christians, and Hindus.
The capital of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, which is also the largest city in the country.
Malaysia has a tropical climate and is known for its beautiful beaches, rainforests, and mountains.
The economy of Malaysia is diverse and has a strong focus on exports, including electronics, petroleum, and palm oil.
Malaysia is a federal parliamentary democracy, with a multi-party system of government.
Malaysia is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Finding an English Teaching Jos In Malaysia

Research: Start by researching the requirements for teaching English in Malaysia. You should also research the types of schools and organizations that hire English teachers in Malaysia.
Get the right qualifications: Most employers in Malaysia require English teachers to have a bachelor's degree, a TEFL or TESOL certification, and some teaching experience. Make sure you have the appropriate qualifications before applying for any positions.
Search for job opportunities: Check online job boards such as Teast for English teaching jobs in Malaysia. You can also check with international schools and language centers directly to inquire about open positions.
Apply for jobs: Once you find a job that interests you, send your resume and a cover letter to the employer. Be sure to highlight your relevant qualifications and experience, and tailor your application to the specific job.
Network: Join online groups and forums to network and learn about job opportunities. Connect with other English teachers in Malaysia for advice and information.
Be prepared for the interview process: Be prepared to demonstrate your teaching skills and answer questions about your experience and qualifications during the interview process. Research the school or organization you're applying to in order to show that you are interested and committed.
Obtain a work visa: Before you can legally work in Malaysia, you will need to obtain a work visa. Your employer should be able to assist you with this process.

Remember to be patient and persistent in your job search. It may take some time to find the right opportunity, but with hard work and dedication, you'll be able to find an English teaching job in Malaysia. Good luck!