Don't be easily fooled by high salaries, especially for overseas jobs, warns employment agency chief

High salaries, particularly for jobs abroad, should not be the sole factor in accepting an offer, according to Datuk Foo Yong Hooi, president of the Malaysian Employment Agencies Association (PAPA).

Individuals must thoroughly assess their educational background and skills to ensure they match the job requirements. "We must ask ourselves, do we have the appropriate educational qualifications for the job offered?" Foo stated. He cautioned that if someone with lower qualifications is promised a high salary, the legitimacy of the opportunity needs investigation.

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We must ask ourselves, do we have the appropriate educational qualifications for the job offered? If the qualifications are low but the job offered promises a high salary, the validity of that opportunity needs to be investigated.

Beyond personal qualifications, Foo stressed the importance of researching the hiring company's background, especially for international positions. "Usually, companies that hire from abroad have a public presence. If it's questionable, it's best to avoid the offer," he advised.

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Usually, companies that hire from abroad have a public presence. If it's questionable, it's best to avoid the offer.

In Malaysia, registered Private Employment Agencies (APS) regulated by the Department of Labor Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) offer overseas job placement services. These agencies, holding B and C licenses, are required to deposit RM100,000 to RM250,000 with JTKSM. This deposit serves as compensation for candidates if issues arise, such as unpaid wages or fraudulent job offers.

Foo noted that many job scams, like Malaysians being stranded in Myanmar to work as scammers, involve unregistered agents. Using a licensed APS ensures accountability for the job offer's authenticity.

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So, if an APS is finding a job for any candidate in Malaysia, any issues that arise are their responsibility, such as ensuring the job is genuine.