A Malaysian engineering student who graduated with first-class honours has found himself in a challenging situation, remaining unemployed due to his struggles with the English language.
The graduate took to social media to voice his frustration, hinting at a belief that many employers prioritize communication skills over technical know-how.
Ni nama dia soft skill. Tapi ang boleh belajaq bi. Confirm belajaq bi lagi senang dari engineering. And kurangkan rasa dengki. Improve diri sendiri. pic.twitter.com/q6x29nxQSG
— 🔺meinifesting🔻 (@meinmokhtar) October 3, 2023
The graduate’s post on social media conveyed a mixture of sadness and resentment.
He felt overshadowed by peers who might not have similar technical proficiency but possess commendable communication skills, describing them as “all talk and no substance.”
Read also:
Draws mixed opinions online
His sentiment, infused with a mix of desolation and bitterness, resonated with some while drawing criticism from others.
Some netizens offered their sympathy, acknowledging the difficulties faced by individuals who aren’t fluent in English.
However, many underscored the imperative nature of strong communication skills in the professional world, highlighting that adaptability and clear interaction are attributes highly sought after by potential employers.
Many online respondents were perplexed by the graduate’s claim, noting that English is an integral component of tertiary education in Malaysia.
They were puzzled how a student could complete an undergraduate program without garnering adequate English proficiency, especially when academic requirements, such as presentations, predominantly utilize English.
The importance of English in Malaysia
To provide context on the significance of English in Malaysia, a study by JobStreet.com revealed that 60% of employers in Malaysia prioritized English proficiency, citing it as a key factor in their hiring decisions.
Furthermore, a report by the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) emphasized that proficiency in English is a crucial determinant of employability, as it facilitates effective communication within the global business landscape.
While possessing domain-specific knowledge is invaluable, the ability to communicate coherently, especially in English, is indispensable in today’s globalized marketplace.
