Work Opportunities in Malaysia for Bangladeshi Students
Malaysia continues to attract Bangladeshi students for its affordable, high-quality education and vibrant multicultural environment. Along with academic growth, many students seek part-time job opportunities to manage their living expenses and gain valuable work experience. This article outlines everything you need to know about working in Malaysia as a Bangladeshi student, including guidelines, top companies, salaries, and how to apply.
Can Bangladeshi Students Work in Malaysia?
Yes, Bangladeshi students are permitted to work part-time in Malaysia. However, you must adhere to the clear guidelines set by the Malaysian government.
Work Guidelines for Bangladeshi Students on a Malaysian Visa
The key regulations for international students include:
- Permitted Work Hours: Up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays of at least 7 days.
- Allowed Sectors:
- Restaurants and cafes
- Petrol stations
- Mini markets and grocery stores
- Hotels (excluding positions such as cashier, musician, masseur)
- Working during active semesters is not permitted unless it is part of the course curriculum, such as internships or industrial training.
Work Permit Process
Students must apply for a work permit through their university’s International Student Office. The application is then reviewed and approved by the Malaysian Immigration Department.
Why Work While Studying?
- Earn additional income to cover living expenses
- Build valuable work experience
- Improve communication and professional skills
- Expand your local network for future job opportunities
Top Companies Hiring Bangladeshi Students in Malaysia
While part-time jobs are common in the hospitality and retail sectors, some students can also secure internships in larger firms related to their field of study. Here are notable companies that offer job opportunities:
- McDonald’s Malaysia
- Starbucks Malaysia
- Petronas
- Nestlé Malaysia
- Top Glove Corporation
- Grab Malaysia
- Shopee Malaysia
- Sunway Group
- Maybank
- Telekom Malaysia
For students in engineering, IT, and business, companies like Shell Malaysia, Intel Malaysia, and Dell Technologies offer valuable internships and graduate job placements.
Part-Time Job Salaries in Malaysia (2025 Update)
Below is a breakdown of typical hourly wages for common student jobs:
| Job Type | Hourly Rate (MYR) |
|---|---|
| Food service (waiter/cashier) | 8–12 MYR |
| Retail sales assistant | 9–14 MYR |
| Housekeeping (hotels) | 8–12 MYR |
| Call center or customer service | 10–15 MYR |
| Tutoring | 15–30 MYR |
Note: 1 MYR is approximately 25 Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) as of 2025.
Where to Find Part-Time Jobs
- University career services and notice boards
- Online job portals: JobStreet, Indeed Malaysia, FastJobs
- Walk-in applications at local businesses such as cafes, retail shops, and restaurants
Student Work Compliance Tips
- Confirm that the job is within the legal sectors permitted by Malaysian immigration.
- Do not work more than 20 hours per week during the approved periods.
- Maintain your student visa and academic performance in good standing.
Why Study and Work in Malaysia?
- Affordable tuition and living expenses
- English-medium education with internationally recognized degrees
- A welcoming multicultural environment
- Opportunities to gain real-world experience while studying
Conclusion
Working part-time in Malaysia allows Bangladeshi students to balance academic life with practical experience. With clear work guidelines and plenty of opportunities available, Malaysia remains a strong choice for students seeking international exposure and career growth. For assistance with university admissions, visa processing, and securing part-time job opportunities, contact NWC Education today.