More Malaysian nurses are leaving for overseas roles as demand surges

Applications from Malaysian nurses seeking overseas roles have surged by up to 50% this year, with Saudi Arabia and Singapore remaining top destinations, and rising interest in Australia, New Zealand, the EU, and the US. Recruiters cite financial strain, stagnant wages, and burnout as major push factors, while global shortages and competitive packages abroad pull talent away.

In 2024, over 3,000 Malaysian nurses moved overseas — 84% from the private sector — with critical care, surgical, and operating room specialties most in demand. The trend highlights intensifying competition for skilled healthcare talent, raising concerns about sustainability of local nursing capacity.

Read the full article to see how this mobility trend could reshape Malaysia’s healthcare workforce.