Average salary in malaysia

The Average Salary in Malaysia and the Cost of Living 

Malaysian Salaries and Expenses

Malaysia is a diverse and vibrant country located in Southeast Asia, known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and a growing economy. 

One of the key factors that people consider when moving to or residing in a new country is the average salary and whether it is sufficient to cover essential expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and family needs. 

In this article, we will explore the average salary in Malaysia and how it measures up to the cost of living. 

We will also delve into regional variations, salaries across different professions, and specific details about scientific investigators and academic professionals.

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Average Salary in Malaysia

The average monthly salary in Malaysia varies depending on factors such as the job sector, experience, and location. 

On average, a typical salary ranges from RM 2,500 to RM 4,000 per month (approximately $600 to $1,000 USD) in 2022.

Cost of Living

Malaysia is known for its relatively affordable cost of living, which makes it an attractive destination for expatriates and immigrants. 

Here's a breakdown of how much one might need to cover essential expenses in Malaysia:

Housing: Rent for a single-bedroom apartment in the city center could cost around RM 1,500 to RM 2,500 per month, while the same apartment outside the city center might be slightly cheaper, around RM 1,000 to RM 1,800.

Food: The cost of groceries and dining out can vary greatly. 

On average, a person can spend about RM 800 to RM 1,500 per month on food.

Transportation: The cost of transportation, including public transportation and fuel for a car, is reasonable. 

It could amount to approximately RM 200 to RM 400 per month.

Family Expenses: Family expenses vary greatly depending on your lifestyle, education, and healthcare needs. 

On average, RM 500 to RM 1,500 per month might be allocated to family expenses.

Regional Variations

Salaries in Malaysia may vary based on the region. 

The cost of living tends to be higher in major cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru compared to smaller towns and rural areas. 

This often translates into slightly higher salaries in urban centers.

Differences between the North and South

Northern and southern regions of Malaysia exhibit variations in the cost of living. 

The northern states, like Penang and Kedah, generally have lower living costs and slightly lower salaries compared to the more developed southern regions, particularly the Kuala Lumpur metropolitan area and its surroundings.

Salaries by Profession

Professions in Malaysia differ in terms of earning potential. 

Here are some examples of salary ranges per month and annually for various professions:

Top-Paid Profession: Medical doctors, especially specialists, tend to earn some of the highest salaries in Malaysia, with an annual income ranging from RM 150,000 to RM 600,000 or more.

Scientific Investigators: Scientists and researchers can earn between RM 3,000 to RM 8,000 per month, depending on their experience and qualifications.

Academic Professionals: The academic field in Malaysia offers varying salaries based on position. Here are some approximate figures:

Assistant Professor: RM 5,000 to RM 8,000 per month

Associate Professor: RM 9,000 to RM 15,000 per month

Full Professor: RM 15,000 to RM 25,000 per month

Predoctoral Students: Stipends for predoctoral students in research or academic programs can range from RM 1,000 to RM 2,500 per month.

Academic Field Salaries

The academic field encompasses various disciplines, each with its own salary range. 

Some of the common academic fields in Malaysia and their average salaries for professors include:

Engineering: RM 8,000 to RM 15,000 per month

Business and Management: RM 7,000 to RM 14,000 per month

Medicine and Healthcare: RM 15,000 to RM 30,000 per month

Humanities and Social Sciences: RM 5,000 to RM 12,000 per month

In Malaysia, the average salary can vary widely depending on factors such as profession, experience, and location. 

While the average salary may be sufficient to cover basic living expenses, it's important to budget wisely and consider your specific circumstances. 

As the cost of living and salaries can change over time, it's advisable to consult the latest information or speak to locals and expatriates in Malaysia for more up-to-date insights.