The issue of youth unemployment in Malaysia is a growing concern, with many young graduates struggling to find stable employment. This problem isn’t necessarily due to a lack of qualified candidates, but rather a lack of accessible and transparent information regarding available job vacancies. The current system, where opportunities are scattered across various private platforms and informal networks, creates an uneven playing field and leaves many young Malaysians feeling lost and frustrated.
The Current Landscape of Youth Unemployment
The statistics paint a concerning picture. Approximately 9.9% of Malaysians aged 15 to 24 are unemployed, translating to over 290,000 individuals. The unemployment rate for those aged 15 to 30 is also significant, standing at 6.2%. These figures reflect a reality that many families are witnessing firsthand – their children possess qualifications and actively seek employment, yet struggle to secure stable work. The fragmented nature of job postings makes it difficult to know if they are missing out on opportunities simply because they are unaware of them.
The Problem of Hidden and Fragmented Job Vacancies
One of the key challenges is the way job vacancies are currently advertised, or rather, not advertised. Many positions are exclusively shared within private portals, informal WhatsApp groups, and closed professional networks. This creates a system where access to opportunities is often dependent on personal connections and insider knowledge, disadvantaging those who lack these advantages. The absence of a centralised and comprehensive platform for job postings means that many young job seekers are essentially navigating a maze, unsure of where to find legitimate opportunities.
A Proposed Solution: Amendment to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017
To address this issue, a proposed amendment to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 (Act 800) aims to create a more transparent and accessible job market. This amendment introduces Section 45F, which would require employers to notify job vacancies on the government’s MYFutureJobs portal.
The intention is not to restrict employers from using other platforms such as JobStreet or LinkedIn. Instead, MYFutureJobs would serve as a central, national reference point where all job seekers can be assured of finding available positions. This baseline visibility is crucial for protecting young workers and ensuring fair access to opportunities.
Benefits of a Centralized Job Portal
The implementation of Section 45F and the strengthening of the MYFutureJobs portal would bring several benefits:
Increased Transparency: A centralized platform would provide a comprehensive overview of available job vacancies across various sectors and locations.
Fairer Access: By requiring employers to post vacancies on MYFutureJobs, the amendment would level the playing field and ensure that all job seekers, regardless of their background or connections, have access to the same information.
Reduced Information Asymmetry: The amendment would address the current problem of fragmented job postings and ensure that young job seekers are not missing out on opportunities simply because they are unaware of them.
Alignment with Global Standards: Promoting transparent vacancy information is a fundamental principle of worker protection, aligning with international labour standards.
Addressing Concerns and Ensuring a Smooth Transition
While the proposed amendment has been met with some calls for a moratorium, it’s important to emphasize that it is not intended to burden employers. Instead, it aims to create a more efficient and equitable job market that benefits both employers and job seekers. Open communication and collaboration between the authorities and employers are crucial to ensure a practical and smooth transition. This includes providing employers with the necessary support and resources to comply with the new requirements.
The Importance of Government Support
It is crucial for the government to remain steadfast in its commitment to this policy. The long-term benefits for Malaysian workers are undeniable. A modern labour system requires vacancies to be visible and fair, not hidden and selective. A centralised platform like MYFutureJobs is a vital step towards creating such a system, empowering young Malaysians to find meaningful employment and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
In conclusion, addressing the issue of hidden and fragmented job vacancies is essential to tackling youth unemployment in Malaysia. The proposed amendment to the Employment Insurance System Act 2017 offers a promising solution by creating a centralized platform for job postings. By prioritizing transparency, fairness, and accessibility, Malaysia can create a more inclusive and equitable job market that benefits both employers and job seekers.
