Fresh Grads Earning Less Than RM3K? Tips to Tackle Salary Woes
Starting your first job should be exciting, but for many Malaysian graduates, it’s an uphill battle. According to recent reports, over 65% of fresh grads earn below RM3,000/month, with many stuck in jobs unrelated to their field of study.
Fresh Grads Earning Less Than RM3K? Tips to Tackle Salary Woes
Here’s a complete blog article for MyJobe.com titled:
Fresh Grads Earning Less Than RM3K? Tips to Tackle Salary Woes
Struggling with low pay after graduation? You’re not alone — but there’s a way forward.
🎓 The Harsh Reality for Malaysian Fresh Graduates
Starting your first job should be exciting — but for many Malaysian graduates, it’s an uphill battle. According to recent reports, over 65% of fresh grads earn below RM3,000/month, with many stuck in jobs unrelated to their field of study.
And it’s not just arts or general studies graduates — even degree holders in business, IT, and engineering are feeling the squeeze.
💬 "With the rising cost of living, RM3,000 just isn’t enough anymore," says Amirul, a 24-year-old marketing grad in Kuala Lumpur.
📉 Why Are Salaries So Low?
Several factors are at play:
Oversupply of graduates in non-technical fields
Mismatch of skills vs industry needs
Companies preferring experience over education
High competition from regional talent (especially in remote work)
💡 5 Smart Strategies to Tackle Low Starting Salaries
Don’t give up. Here’s how to improve your chances and increase your income:
1. Target High-Demand Roles with Fast Growth
Some industries are hiring aggressively and paying well:
Digital marketing, UI/UX, software dev
Customer success and inside sales
Logistics & supply chain (esp. with AI tools)
Check MyJobe.com’s Trending Jobs section to explore.
2. Don’t Just Apply — Build Your Brand
Most fresh grads send out 100+ resumes. But what gets you noticed is:
A complete profile with keywords & achievements
A professional photo and engaging intro paragraph
Sharing updates or insights on LinkedIn/MyJobe to stay active
💡 Tip: Use MyJobe’s Free CV Builder with AI suggestions tailored to Malaysia’s job market.
3. Upskill — Without Breaking the Bank
Free or low-cost certifications can help you stand out:
Google Digital Garage (marketing & data)
Coursera (try Petronas-funded programs)
HRD Corp training directory for claimable local workshops
🎯 Bonus: Employers on MyJobe filter by specific certifications — include them in your profile.
4. Negotiate Confidently — But Realistically
Fresh grads fear negotiation. Don’t.
Research salary ranges on MyJobe or AmbitionBox
Ask: “Is there room for growth or review after probation?”
Focus on total package: allowances, learning, exposure
5. Explore Side Gigs or Remote Work
Freelancing is no longer just for designers or coders. You can:
Be a part-time virtual assistant, copywriter, or recruiter