Ever wondered why so many Malaysians are choosing to become Singaporean citizens? Is it the lure of better pay, or are we as a country simply not creating enough opportunities for our young talent? Let’s break it down.
Data from the National Registration Department shows over 57,000 Malaysians renounced their citizenship between 2020–2025—that’s around 11,000 a year! And the majority? Young, productive adults aged 21–40. These are engineers, accountants, and doctors—people Malaysia invested in, only to see them leave.
Take this example: a Malaysian engineer starts work in Singapore with a salary of SGD 5,000—that’s roughly RM15,000. Compare that to a similar role in Malaysia paying RM5,000. Would you stick around for less than half the pay? Most won’t. It’s not about loyalty—it’s economics. 💸
Even our doctors face this dilemma. With high costs of living and limited placements locally, many look abroad where their expertise is valued and compensated properly. Brain drain isn’t just a buzzword—it’s real, and it’s costing us talent and economic growth.
But here’s the silver lining: Johor is emerging as Malaysia’s “second Klang Valley”. With the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, tax incentives, new data centers, and better infrastructure, Johor is attracting businesses, investments, and jobs closer to home. Local talent can now earn competitive wages without having to leave the country.
Still, challenges remain. Property prices are soaring due to Singaporean demand, public transport is limited, and some industries still struggle to match salaries abroad. Malaysia isn’t losing this battle entirely—it’s just about creating the right opportunities at the right time.
So, can we really blame those leaving? Or should we reflect on whether Malaysia is doing enough to keep its brightest minds at home? 🤔
Here’s something you can do for your money while staying in Malaysia:
Hey! I’ve been using this wealth management app called Versa to grow my money. It’s easy to navigate, and the products are managed by experts at AHAM Asset Management Berhad.
You should try it too! Sign up with my link and get RM10 reward when you complete these simple steps:
Download: https://download.versa.com.my/1bAf/referral?deep_link_value=UAVR6K5X
Sign up with my referral code: UAVR6K5X
Complete the onboarding steps.
Make your first cash-in of minimum RM100 into any Versa product.
💡 Take control of your finances today—stay smart, stay invested, and grow your wealth while supporting Malaysia’s future talent.
#BrainDrain #Malaysia #Singapore #JohorEconomicGrowth #InvestSmart #VersaApp #RM10Reward #TrendingNow
