East Asia & Pacific
Malaysia Unemployment
Share of the labor force that is without work but available for and seeking employment.
Latest Value
3.8%
As of 2025
YoY Change
-2.1%
2024 → 2025
Record High
4.6%
Recorded in 2021
Record Low
2.5%
Recorded in 1997
10-Year Average
3.8%
2016–2025
Data Range
1991–2025
35 data points
Source
World Bank
Code: SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS
Historical Trend
Analysis
Malaysia's unemployment rate of 3.76% in 2025 indicates a relatively stable labor market. This rate is considered low compared to other countries, suggesting that Malaysia's economy is creating sufficient jobs to absorb its workforce. The country's diverse economy, with a mix of manufacturing, services, and agriculture, has contributed to this stable employment situation.
Historical Data
| Value | YoY Change | Change % | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 3.8% | 0.1% | -2.1% |
| 2024 | 3.8% | 0.0% | -0.3% |
| 2023 | 3.9% | 0.1% | -1.8% |
| 2022 | 3.9% | 0.7% | -15.3% |
| 2021 | 4.6% | 0.1% | +2.2% |
| 2020 | 4.5% | 1.2% | +36.3% |
| 2019 | 3.3% | 0.0% | +0.9% |
| 2018 | 3.3% | 0.1% | -3.2% |
| 2017 | 3.4% | 0.0% | -0.9% |
| 2016 | 3.4% | 0.3% | +11.0% |
Source: World Bank Open Data · 1991–2025
Neighbouring Countries Ranking
East Asia & Pacific · Unemployment
