Myanmar Migrant Workers in Malaysia: Issues, Intentions, & Policy Implications
By Khant Eaint Hmoo
As thousands of Myanmar workers seek opportunities in Malaysia, this article examines their motivations, struggles, and broader social implications.
Introduction
Migration from Myanmar to Malaysia has become one of the most significant labour movements in Southeast Asia. Malaysia’s expanding industrial base and continuous demand for affordable labour have made it a primary destination for Myanmar migrants. Among the estimated 800,000 Myanmar workers living in Malaysia, many view migration as a means to escape economic hardship and political instability in their home country.
Despite their significant role in Malaysia’s economy, these workers often remain marginalised and underrepresented in public discourse. In early 2024, Frontier Myanmar reported that the Malaysian government introduced a voluntary repatriation program starting on 1 March 2024. The policy encouraged undocumented migrants to surrender to the authorities and return home without prosecution by paying a fine of 300–500 ringgit per immigration offence. This move signalled Malaysia’s increasingly strict approach toward undocumented labour, even though the country continues to rely heavily on migrant workers to sustain its industries.
Reasons for Migration
The migration of Myanmar citizens to Malaysia can be explained through both push and pull factors. Push factors stem from conditions within Myanmar. Persistent economic instability, unemployment, and political uncertainty have forced many citizens to seek opportunities abroad. The 2021 military coup further intensified the economic crisis, leading to inflation, rising poverty, and limited access to stable employment. For many rural families, labour migration has become one of the few viable strategies for survival and income generation.
Conversely, pull factors are linked to Malaysia’s expanding economy, which offers higher wages, greater job security, and improved living standards compared to Myanmar. The most common employment sectors include manufacturing, construction, agriculture, plantation work, and domestic service. Social networks also play a vital role in facilitating migration, as friends and relatives who have already migrated assist newcomers in finding jobs and navigating legal procedures. Over time, these social connections have established a strong and continuous migration corridor between Myanmar and Malaysia.
Theoretical View of the Intended Migration
The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) provides a useful framework for understanding the intentions of Myanmar workers to migrate. The theory suggests that human behaviour is influenced by three components: attitude toward the behaviour, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control.
For many Myanmar migrants, the attitude toward migration is highly positive. Young individuals, in particular, view working abroad as a means to achieve financial independence, support their families, and enhance their quality of life. Migration is perceived as a symbol of progress, ambition, and empowerment.
Subjective norms, or social expectations, also shape migration decisions. Within many Myanmar communities, migration to Malaysia is considered a mark of success. Families and neighbours often respect and admire those who send remittances home, which reinforces the idea that working abroad is both honourable and beneficial.
Finally, perceived behavioural control refers to an individual’s belief in their ability to migrate successfully and adapt to life in a new country. Despite knowing the challenges of working in so-called 3D jobs (dirty, dangerous, and difficult), many believe the opportunity to earn a higher income outweighs the associated risks.
According to UNDP (2024), approximately 40 per cent of Myanmar youth expressed a desire to migrate abroad if given the chance. This indicates that migration is not merely an economic decision, but also a social and psychological phenomenon deeply rooted in both community influence and personal ambition.
Issues and Challenges
Although Malaysia benefits from the labour of Myanmar migrants, these workers continue to face numerous legal, economic, and social challenges. Legal documentation remains one of the most pressing concerns. The Irrawaddy (2024) reported that around 500,000 Myanmar workers are officially registered, while the remaining 300,000 live and work without valid documentation. Undocumented migrants face the constant threat of arrest, detention, and deportation under Malaysia’s immigration laws. Although the 2024 repatriation initiative provided temporary relief, the requirement to pay fines ranging from 300 to 500 ringgit (USD 70–120) was financially burdensome for many low-income workers.
Exploitation and labour abuse are also widespread. Numerous human rights organisations have reported cases involving recruitment fraud, unpaid wages, passport confiscation, and unsafe working environments. Many migrants endure long working hours, minimal rest, and poor occupational safety. Furthermore, Myanmar migrants often encounter social discrimination and cultural exclusion. They are frequently viewed as temporary or low-status residents and are excluded from welfare programs. Language barriers, unclear legal rights, and frequent policy shifts further increase their vulnerability and insecurity.
Benefits to Myanmar’s Economy
Despite these hardships, the contribution of Myanmar migrant workers remains vital to the country’s economic development. According to the World Bank (2023), Myanmar migrants abroad remitted approximately USD 1.5 billion, representing around 2 per cent of the nation’s GDP. These remittances serve as a crucial lifeline for families, enabling access to education, healthcare, and improved living conditions while stimulating local business growth.
Conclusion
The situation of Myanmar migrant workers in Malaysia highlights the complex nature of labour migration, which is a process that provides opportunities for personal growth while exposing workers to structural inequalities and risks. Addressing these challenges aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, which emphasises fair labour practices, safe working conditions, and equal opportunities for all workers. For migration to become a truly sustainable and empowering process, both governments must strengthen labour governance, ensure fair recruitment, and expand legal migration pathways. Providing skill-development programs, digital training, and entrepreneurship opportunities such as SME and start-up support can also help migrants build long-term financial independence. Ultimately, when human dignity is respected and economic opportunities are shared equitably, migration can evolve from a necessity into a vehicle for inclusive growth and regional prosperity.
Khant Eaint Hmoo is a Bachelor of Economics (Hons) student from Albukhary International University, Malaysia.
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