Teach English in Malaysia

Details

Summary

There is moderate demand for teachers, and the market is very competitive There are many Malaysians who can teach English, so it can be difficult for native speakers to get a job.

Main TEFL regions

Kuala Lumpur, Sabah, Sarawak

Types of teaching

English-medium schools: General English, English for Younger Learners
Private language institutes: General English, Business English
Universities: General English, English for Academic/Specific Purposes

Accommodation

You’ll usually have to find your own apartment, which is about 1000RM for a one-bedroom place in Kuala Lumpur.

Flight reimbursement

Only if you’re very well-qualified and thus in a good negotiating position.

Salary

Many locals grew up in bilingual households, so there’s an abundance of English-speaking teachers. Therefore, a newly-qualified TEFL teacher will earn a local wage: about RM2,000-3,000 (US$620-925) per month. Teachers with an MA will get significantly more: from RM4,000 up to RM8,000 or more.

Taxes

On a RM2000 a month salary, about 3% will go on income tax. If you’re a really high earner, it’ll be more like 14%.

Cost of living

In Kuala Lumpur, the cost of living is much higher than in neighbouring capitals, although it’s still much cheaper than in western countries. A beer is about RM10 (US$3), a kilo of rice is about RM8, while eating a cheap diner/street food meal will cost about RM9. Costs outside Kuala Lumpur are much lower, but so is the demand for teachers.

Potential to save money

On a newly-qualified teacher’s salary, you’re unlikely to be able to save any money. Though once you have some experience, it should be possible.

How much TEFL training is recommended?

Very few employers will accept anything less than a TEFL qualification, and most will expect something comprehensive such as i-to-i’s 100-hour combined course.

Common teaching conditions

You will usually have 25 contact hours per week and, if you’re lucky enough to work at a university, you’ll be expected to spend at least 6 hours a day on campus. Many private language schools are run by businessmen, so the quality of teaching won’t be as good as in those run by teachers. The students are generally dedicated and enjoyable to teach.

Be aware…

In Kuala Lumpur, the traffic is bad and the drivers are worse. You take you life in your own hands when you cross the road!