KUALA LUMPUR, OCTOBER 19
With limited opportunities in Nepal, a majority of the youth seek employment abroad for better income, job prospects, and an improved quality of life to support their families back home.
Malaysia is no exception for Nepalis pursuing work opportunities, with many migrant workers considering it their home away from home for various reasons.
According to the Department of Foreign Employment, 288,266 Nepalis obtained labor permits to work in Malaysia during the fiscal year 2023/24.
Dr. Ganesh Gurung, a labor and migration expert, noted that in Nepali communities, it is common for at least one family member to be abroad, whether in Western countries or in migrant worker destinations such as the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.
"Those from affluent backgrounds tend to prefer the Western world, whereas individuals from lower-income backgrounds typically seek employment in the Gulf and other regions," Gurung shared.
Encountering Nepalis serving at the airport cafeteria and crossing paths with those in security uniforms in downtown Kuala Lumpur and other areas is a common phenomenon.
Nepalis are employed across all sectors of the Malaysian job market," shared Birjesh Mahat, owner of Nepal House in downtown Kuala Lumpur. "We have Nepalis working in higher-level positions earning salaries of up to NPR 300,000, while others are employed in lower-wage jobs to make ends meet."
Entrepreneur Mahat, noted that Nepalis have also gradually established businesses in hospitality, textiles, clothing, and specialty stores, citing Chitwan Trading as an example, while others work as security guards or in the manufacturing and service industries.
"I have been here for two decades. Initially, I was employed, but through hard work, divine grace, and the support of the Malaysian government, I was able to establish my own business. Malaysia is my second home and very close to my heart. During festive seasons, I miss my family and my country; although we celebrate here with friends, it's just not the same as in Nepal. Nevertheless, I am happy here," Mahat shared.
Similarly, Umesh Gajmer, 24, from Morang District in Nepal, currently employed at The Coffee Beans and Tea Leaf in the arrivals section of Kuala Lumpur International Airport, shared, "I had no options to support my family back in Nepal. With limited choices, circumstances compelled me to seek better employment and a future in Malaysia."
"I am earning a decent income and am grateful that I can support my family and take care of my siblings' education. I couldn't ask for more; I am content being here. For me, it's a home away from home," he said, a smile illuminating his face.
When asked how he copes with missing his family during festive seasons, he responded, "It's difficult to be away from loved ones during those times, but I have no regrets. We make the most of what we have here."
Umesh Kumar, deployed as a security guard at Berjaya Times Square in the Bukit Bintang downtown area of Kuala Lumpur, stated, "I have been here for two years, and I am content working as a guard, earning a decent income to support my family back home."
Similarly, Amit Kumar Sunar from Syangja District, who has worked as a security guard at Berjaya Times Square for eight years, remarked, "The owner of this mall even has a Nepali as his personal aide." He expressed pride in the appreciation and trust they receive from Malaysians, which he believes is a testament to their hard work and dedication.
"I am pleased to be part of this team; we live here like a family. Sometimes we have Nepali gatherings, and during festivals, the friendly atmosphere and welcoming people make us feel as though we are in Nepal," Sunar added.
"Everywhere has its pros and cons, but here in Kuala Lumpur, we are happy because our work is appreciated by both the locals and the Malaysian government," he concluded.
Malaysia has not only become a favored destination for Nepali migrant workers but also a popular travel spot for Nepali tourists, as encounters with fellow Nepalis are common in almost every tourist destination here, Sunar shared.
