Malaysia’s labour market remains stable in the near term, but the government is bracing for delayed impacts in the second quarter of 2026, amid global energy crisis.
Economy Minister YB Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said data from the Social Security Organisation (PERKESO) showed a slight improvement, with 5,734 job loss recorded in the first three weeks of April, down from 5,855 in March and 7,512 in February.
Despite the improving trend, the government expects lagged effects from rising energy and operating costs to surface more clearly in the coming months.
Five key sectors have already been identified as vulnerable between January and March — manufacturing, other services, information and communications, accommodation and food services, as well as transportation and storage.
The ministry said early intervention and monitoring will be critical to mitigate potential employment disruptions as businesses adjust to prolonged cost pressures.
