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​Salary discussions are becoming one of the biggest friction points in Malaysia’s hiring market in 2026. While organisations are holding tightly to controlled pay increases, professionals—especially those considering a job move—are expecting significantly higher jumps.This growing gap between salary expectations and employer constraints is reshaping hiring conversations, slo...

​When organisations talk about retention, the focus is usually on resignation rates. But in Malaysia’s workforce in 2026, the bigger risk is not people leaving - it’s people staying and disengaging.“Quiet quitting” is becoming more common. Employees remain in their roles but reduce effort, motivation, and discretionary contribution. The impact is subtle, but costly: lower pr...

​Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept in Malaysia’s workforce - it’s already here. But despite ongoing concerns, AI is not wiping out jobs. In 2026, its real impact is far more practical: AI is changing how work gets done and raising expectations for skills across roles.The conversation has shifted away from fear of replacement and toward the reality of augm...

​Despite renewed hiring activity, frustration remains high on both sides of the market. Employers report difficulty filling roles, while candidates struggle to find opportunities that match their experience and expectations.This tension is not driven by a lack of talent. Instead, it reflects a growing shortage of “precise fit.” Employers are searching for candidates with ver...

​Malaysia’s hiring market is gaining momentum in 2026, but it is not returning to the rapid expansion seen in earlier years. Instead, employers are recalibrating after a prolonged period of cost controls and restructuring. Growth is back, yet it is being pursued carefully, with greater emphasis on flexibility, precision, and long-term sustainability.This shift is shaping a t...

​Over the past eight quarters, hiring has become increasingly selective. Organisations are under pressure to protect profit margins as economic uncertainty continues, while ongoing technological transformation reshapes the talent market. As a result, recruitment in 2026 will increasingly reward candidates who understand how hiring decisions are really made.This Hiring Playbo...

​The Philippines’ technology sector is entering a new era, defined by rapid modernisation, stronger digital investments, and a rising demand for skilled talent. Organisations are accelerating upgrades in IT infrastructure, cloud systems, and AI integration, signalling a clear shift towards smarter, more resilient operations.However, it is not technology alone driving this m...

​Market Overview: Increasing Fluidity in Tech Talent MovementIndonesia’s tech employment landscape is shifting faster than ever. Organisations that have embraced hybrid, remote, contract and project-based working are seeing real results. In fact, more than 60% report stronger performance after moving to more flexible workforce models (Cisco Global Hybrid Work Study, 2022)....

​Conversations about how employees begin their workweek continue to evolve, and one idea gaining broader attention is Bare Minimum Mondays. The concept raises an important question: Can taking it slow on Monday actually help people get more done throughout the week?What is Bare Minimum Mondays?Bare Minimum Mondays is the practice of starting the week by focusing only on ess...

​The idea of welcoming back former employees, often called boomerang employees, is gaining traction in today’s dynamic job market. As companies navigate evolving economic landscapes and a competitive talent environment, many are rethinking their hiring strategies and rediscovering the value of people who once walked through their doors. These individuals come with an existi...

In today’s rapidly evolving workforce landscape, two quiet yet powerful trends have emerged as mirrors of organisational health: quiet quitting and quiet hiring. At first glance, they appear to represent opposing forces. One signals employee disengagement, while the other reflects an employer’s adaptive strategy. Yet both stem from the same underlying issue – a growing mis...

​Indonesia’s consumer goods sector remains resilient. Driven by value-conscious consumers who demand accessibility, companies are constantly adapting their operational strategies, we are seeing a fundamental shift in how it designs its workforce and manages talent. The sector's strength is clear: in Q2 2025, Indonesia's Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) market growth impro...

​The Philippines’ healthcare sector is rapidly transforming. Hospitals are adding specialized services like NICUs, while telecare and advanced diagnostics are changing how patients receive care. With the industry set to reach USD 6.7B by 2028, demand for medical technologies, global partnerships, and innovative care models is surging.Expanding Global EngagementHospitals are ...

​Story by: Jorelle EscuetaSecuring the right leader for a highly specialized role is never easy. For many organizations, the challenge isn’t just about finding qualified professionals—it’s about identifying someone who can seamlessly meet every requirement, align with long-term business objectives, and step into a role that carries significant strategic weight.Recently, Monr...

​The Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector is currently moving at a more measured pace. Investment activities are on hold, spending is cautious, and hiring has entered a holding pattern across many parts of the industry. Yet, beneath this quieter surface, key shifts are taking place. With strong fundamentals in place and continued support from surrounding...

The hiring process is undeniably a two-way street. While employers meticulously assess candidates, job seekers should equally scrutinize potential employers for warning signs that could signal a poor fit or even a toxic work environment. Recognizing these "red flags" early can save you from future frustration, stagnation, or profound regret. Here’s precisely what to watch fo...

The Philippines is tackling two key challenges: achieving a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and modernizing its industries and infrastructure to drive long-term economic growth. By advancing smart manufacturing and green infrastructure, the country is well-positioned to boost competitiveness and sustainability.Industrial Drivers of Sustainable Transformatio...

In today’s talent market, top candidates are not only evaluating compensation, but they are also assessing growth potential. For them, Learning & Development (L&D) isn’t a perk that comes after they join; it’s a deciding factor that weighs heavily before they sign.As the competition for skilled professionals intensifies and with the rise of AI reshaping countless roles, L&D...

​Indonesia’s healthcare sector is entering a period of dynamic growth and transformation. With the government allocating IDR 197.8 trillion to the health sector for the 2025 fiscal year, providers are finding innovative ways to enhance the quality and affordability of care. Increased investments and policy support are driving this evolution, creating opportunities across rel...

The way we work has changed since the pandemic. Remote and hybrid working aren’t just passing trends; they’ve become the norm for many professionals across the globe. But with this shift comes a big question: How do we stay productive and feel like we belong when we’re no longer in the same room?For businesses and employees alike, striking the right balance between where we ...