Can Bangladeshi Students Work Part-Time in Malaysia? (2026 Guide)
Studying in Malaysia is a popular choice for Bangladeshi students, but balancing living expenses with Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) costs can be challenging. Naturally, many students wonder: Can international students work part-time while studying in Malaysia?
The quick answer is yes — but within strict legal limits. Ignoring these rules could risk your Student Pass or even lead to deportation.
This updated 2026 guide clearly explains the rules on part-time work for international students in Malaysia, the impact of the new minimum wage, and exactly how to stay compliant with immigration laws.
Malaysia Part-Time Jobs for Students: The Legal Rules (2026)
Under current Malaysian immigration policy managed by the Immigration Department of Malaysia (JIM), international students — including those from Bangladesh — can work a maximum of 20 hours per week. However, there is a key restriction:
❌ You cannot work while classes are in session.
You may only take on part-time work during:
✅ Semester breaks.
✅ Official school holidays.
✅ Festive holiday periods (e.g., Eid al-Fitr, Chinese New Year)
✅ Any holiday lasting more than 7 days.
Working outside these holiday periods — even for a few hours — is considered illegal under your Student Pass.
| Allowed Sectors | Strictly Prohibited Roles |
| Hotels (Housekeeping / Kitchen Assistance) | Cashier (handling cash financial transactions) |
| Restaurants (Waitstaff / Cleaning) | Singer / Musician / GRO |
| Petrol Kiosks | Masseur |
| Mini Markets | Any “immoral” activities |
Can Bangladeshi Students Work Part-Time in Malaysia? (2026 Guide)
Students in Malaysia can search for part-time or full-time job opportunities through several trusted online job platforms. These websites regularly publish listings for internships, entry-level roles, retail work, hospitality jobs, and temporary student-friendly positions. Creating a profile and uploading your CV on these platforms can significantly increase your chances of connecting with employers across Malaysia.
1. JobStreet: JobStreet is one of the most widely used job portals in Malaysia. Students can find opportunities in sectors like restaurants, retail, hospitality, customer service, and internships. The platform allows users to filter jobs by location such as Kuala Lumpur, Cyberjaya, or Selangor.
Website: https://www.jobstreet.com.my
2. Indeed: Indeed is a global job search engine that aggregates thousands of job listings across Malaysia. International students can search for part-time jobs, student jobs, temporary work, and internships and apply directly to employers through the platform.
Website: https://www.indeed.com.my
3. LinkedIn: LinkedIn is widely used for professional networking and job searching. Many Malaysian companies post internships, graduate trainee roles, and entry-level positions here. Students can build a professional profile and connect with recruiters to explore career opportunities.
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/jobs
4. Hiredly: Hiredly (formerly WOBB) focuses on young professionals and fresh graduates. Many startups and modern companies in Malaysia post internship and junior-level roles here, making it a great option for students looking to start their careers.
Website: https://hiredly.com
5. Maukerja: Maukerja is especially helpful for students seeking service sector jobs such as work in restaurants, mini markets, hotels, or retail stores. These types of roles are often suitable for part-time work during semester breaks.
Website: https://www.maukerja.my
Tip for International Students:
When applying for jobs in Malaysia, clearly mention in your CV that you hold a Student Pass and are eligible to work during approved holiday periods according to Malaysian immigration regulations. This helps employers understand your legal work eligibility.
Earnings & the RM 1,700 Minimum Wage Effect
From late 2025 into 2026, Malaysia’s national minimum monthly wage is RM 1,700. For students working part time, this works out to about RM 8.20 – RM 8.75 per hour.
Here’s what that means:
- If you work the full allowed 20 hours per week during a break month (~80 hours), you can earn RM 660 – RM 700.
- That’s often enough to cover shared housing rent or monthly groceries.
- However, it will not fully cover tuition — so plan accordingly.
Step-by-Step: How to Legally Get Your Work Permission Endorsed
You cannot start working without permission endorsed on your passport. Here’s what you must do:
- Secure a Job Offer: Get a written offer letter from an employer in one of the approved sectors (hotel, restaurant, etc.).
- Visit Your University International Office: Your university must prepare a support letter confirming your good academic standing.
- Submit to EMGS / Immigration: The International Office submits your work request to the Immigration Department.
- Brief Interview (Sometimes Required): You may be asked a quick interview about your role.
- Work Endorsement Sticker: Once approved, a “Work Permission” sticker is placed in your passport.
After Graduation: The 12-Month Graduate Pass
Good news for Bangladeshi students in 2026:
If you complete your Bachelor’s degree or higher, you are eligible to apply for a 12-month Graduate Pass (often called the Social Visit Pass for Graduates).
During this year:
✔ You can stay in Malaysia without a corporate sponsor
✔ You can apply for a professional Employment Pass (EP)
✔ You have time to find high-skill jobs in your field
This makes your stay much more flexible after graduation.
Important FAQs (Based on Malaysian Rules)
- Is it legal for Bangladeshi students to work part-time in Malaysia?
✔ Yes — up to 20 hours per week during authorized breaks, with a valid Student Pass and official endorsement. - Which sectors can international students work in?
✔ Hotels, restaurants, petrol kiosks, & mini markets only.
❌ Jobs involving financial handling (cashier), entertainment, or personal services are not allowed. - What is the minimum wage for part-time student workers?
✔ ~RM 8.20 – RM 8.75 per hour based on the RM 1,700 national minimum wage. - Do I need a separate work permit?
✔ No — but you must obtain a work endorsement added to your Student Pass. - Can I work while classes are in session?
❌ No — work is only permitted during official holiday periods and long breaks.