Great news for foreign professionals working in Malaysia! If you hold an Employment Pass, you can now pursue online postgraduate studies without restrictions. This policy change makes it easier than ever to upgrade your skills, earn a higher qualification, and advance your
career—all while keeping your job.

A Major Shift: From Conventional to Online Learning

Before this ruling, those with an Employment Visa could only pursue further education through conventional, in-person study. Online learning was not an option. Now, Employment Pass holders can enjoy greater flexibility and accessibility, making it possible to balance work and
studies more effectively.

What is an Employment Pass?

Before exploring the benefits of online learning, let’s briefly understand the Employment Pass and how it impacts your education opportunities.

Malaysia offers three types of Employment Passes:

• Type I – For highly skilled professionals in managerial, executive, or technical roles. This category provides the most flexibility, including access to education.
• Type II – For mid-level professionals with specialized skills. These holders can now also benefit from online learning.
• Type III – For workers with basic or vocational qualifications. This category has more restrictions, but alternative study options may be available.

With this new policy, Employment Passholders—especially those under Type I and II—can now earn postgraduate qualifications online while continuing to work. This is an excellent opportunity for career growth without disrupting employment.

Why Choose Online Postgraduate Studies?

Online education is gaining popularity worldwide, and for good reason. Here’s why it’s a great choice for professionals in Malaysia:

1. Affordable Fees

Before this ruling, Employment Visa holders could study in Malaysia, but they had to pay international student fees—often double the local fees. For example, MBA program fees for Malaysian students typically range from RM16,000 to RM24,000, while international students would pay between RM30,000 and RM40,000. Now, Employment Pass holders can enjoy local student fees with only a minimal additional charge for EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services). This makes postgraduate education significantly more affordable.

2. Flexible Learning Schedule

Balancing work and study can be challenging,but online learning offers the flexibility to study at your own pace. Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, you can access lectures, assignments, and study materials whenever it suits you. This flexibility is ideal for professionals with demanding schedules.

3. Study from Anywhere

No need to relocate or commute to a universitycampus—study from your home, office, or anywhere in Malaysia. Whether you're based in Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Penang, or Sabah, quality education is just a few clicks away.

4. Boost Your Career Prospects

A postgraduate degree can give you acompetitive edge in today’s job market. Employers value professionals who continuously upskill. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, transitioning into a new field, or launching your own business, an advanced qualification can open new doors.

Debunking Common Myths About Online Learning

Despite its advantages, some misconceptions still exist about online education. Let’s clear them up:

Myth 1: Online degrees are less credible.

✅ Reality: Many top universities, including UNIRAZAK, offer accredited online programs that are recognized globally.

Myth 2: Online learning is isolating and lacks interaction.

✅ Reality: Online programs include discussion forums, group projects, and live sessions with lecturers and classmates to enhance interaction.

Myth 3: Online programs are less effective than traditional classes.

✅ Reality: Research shows that online learning can be just aseffective—sometimes even better—than face-to-face learning.

How Employment Pass Type II Holders Can Benefit from Upskilling

Employment Pass Type II holders can significantly benefit from enrolling in a local Malaysian university’s
postgraduate program. Since Type II is limited to a maximum of two years with a salary range of RM5,000–RM9,999, obtaining an advanced qualification can help them meet the salary threshold required for Employment Pass Type I (minimum RM10,000/month).

By earning a postgraduate degree, such as an MBA, professionals can enhance their expertise, increase job prospects, and position themselves for leadership roles. Many employers in Malaysia prioritize candidates with advanced credentials, and a local degree improves industry credibility.

Additionally, Type II holders benefit from affordable tuition fees, flexible study schedules, and networking opportunities with industry leaders—accelerating their career growth and increasing the chances of securing an upgrade to Type I status.

Choosing the Right Online Postgraduate Program

If you’re considering an online postgraduateprogram, keep these factors in mind:

✅ Align with Career Goals – Choose a program that supports your professional ambitions.

✅ Check University Accreditation – Ensure the institution is recognized and offers globally valued qualifications.

✅ Look for Flexibility – Opt for programs that allow self-paced study.

✅ Ensure Industry Relevance – Select a course with practical skills and knowledge applicable to your field.

✅ Evaluate Student Support Services – A strong program provides academic, career, and technical support to help students succeed.

Talk to Our Student Advisor

Choosing the right postgraduate program is an important decision. Our student advisors at UNIRAZAK can help design a personalized study plan for you, which you can use to compare with other universities.

At UNIRAZAK, we offer postgraduate business programs with specializations in:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Business Analytics
• Fintech
• Healthcare Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Project Management
• Human Resource Management
• Finance
• Islamic Finance
• Management
• Risk Management
• Occupational Safety, Health & Environment (OSHE)
• Entrepreneurship

What sets our programs apart? Graduates don’t just earn a qualification from UNIRAZAK—they also receive additional credentials from global universities, enhancing career prospects worldwide.

📢 Talk to our student advisor today and explore your postgraduate options!