ITTT FAQs – How much can I earn teaching English in Malaysia?

Situated just north of the Equator, Malaysia is a tropical destination that has plenty to offer TEFL qualified teachers. The country’s rapid development, diverse culture, and great food are all major attractions. The government is also keen to recruit more English teachers in the coming years, ensuring plenty of opportunities for international teachers. As there are a large number of local English language teachers, competition for jobs is relatively strong, but they are available for those who want them.

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What are TEFL salaries in Malaysia?
Salaries in Malaysia are not in the same league as some other Asian countries such as China, Japan, or South Korea, with an average wage being around $1, 000 USD per month. However, the cost of living is relatively low so this figure can go a long way if you live a normal lifestyle. Many jobs also include accommodation or a housing subsidy which takes away one of the biggest outgoings for most teachers working overseas. After a three month probationary period, teachers are usually entitled to 18 days paid vacation per year, plus the standard 17 days of public holidays. Some contracts also include paid airfare in and out of the country, but these are relatively rare.

Who are the main employers of English language teachers in Malaysia?
International schools are where the best paying jobs can be found and there are many of them across the country. These schools follow either a British, American, or Australian curriculum which provides good opportunities for teachers from those countries. There are plenty of international schools in and around the capital city, Kuala Lumpur, however, employers will typically expect a high level of qualifications and experience for these positions.

Public colleges and universities also offer plenty of job opportunities. Salaries are not as high as international schools, but the working hours and the overall workload are usually considerably less. These roles normally consist of running conversational English classes that are often quite laidback compared to many other teaching jobs. Another popular option is private language schools. An online search will reveal a number of language schools that you can contact directly via their websites.

What is the recruitment process for English teachers in Malaysia?
Although some teaching jobs can be secured from within your home country, most employers take their recruitment process very seriously and will want to go through a thorough interview process in person. The best approach is to compile a list of potential jobs before leaving home and then contact them in person or by phone once you arrive. Local newspapers such as The Star are also a good source of job listings. The majority of positions are located in and around Kuala Lumpur, although other areas also have options as education is a high priority right across the country. As the job market is very competitive, the minimum requirement for most teaching jobs is a degree, a TEFL/TESOL certification and two years of classroom experience.

What is the cost of living for English teachers in Malaysia?
Although the cost of living is quite low in Malaysia, it will help a great deal if you find a job that includes accommodation or a housing subsidy. If you don’t have to worry about rent you can live a very comfortable lifestyle. Your monthly grocery bill should be relatively small as it is cheap to eat out at local food stalls and restaurants where you can enjoy high-quality food for just a few dollars. This is also a great way to experience the diverse culture of the country and to make friends in the local community. Public transport is very affordable, with a daily pass on the buses costing only $0.30. Utility bills are also cheap at around $15.00 per month.