Malaysia’s unemployment rate fell to 2.9% in November 2025, its lowest level in 11 years, as the labour market strengthens with 17.09 million employed.
PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.9% in November 2025, its lowest level in 11 years.
The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) reported that 518,400 people were unemployed, a slight decrease from 518,900 in October.
Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the last time the rate fell below 3% was in November 2014.
“The sharp improvement reflects the continued strengthening of the labour market, supported by stable economic conditions and steady demand for labour across key sectors,” he said.
The labour force expanded by 0.2% to 17.61 million persons, while the participation rate held steady at 70.9%.
The number of employed persons grew 0.2% to 17.09 million.
Employees accounted for 74.8% of total employment, rising to 12.78 million persons.
Own-account workers also increased to 3.26 million.
Employment growth was broad-based, led by the services sector.
Key growth areas included human health, social work, wholesale and retail trade, and accommodation and food services.
Growth was also recorded in agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and mining and quarrying.
Mohd Uzir said the labour market is expected to remain stable and grow positively in coming months.
He cited emerging job opportunities in strategic sectors and ongoing reskilling initiatives as supporting factors.
“Therefore, Malaysia’s labour market is forecast to remain competitive, inclusive and resilient in addressing global challenges,” he added.
The number of people working less than 30 hours per week rose to 237,000.
Time-related underemployment increased to 129,900 persons, raising the underemployment rate to 0.8%.
