Counselling for Malaysians working in Singapore

1.0 Abstract

This study investigates the struggles of Malaysians working in Singapore and

proposes corresponding counselling solutions to alleviate their challenges. There are
more than 500,000 Malaysian workers working in Singapore and this number is a
significant large number of the workforce overseas. Qualitative research was done
among 15 Malaysians who are currently working in Singapore. The findings have
proven that many Malaysians are facing the same challenges in Singapore, citing
work stress and traffic jams across the causeway as major challenges.

2.0 Introduction

Malaysia-Singapore border holds the world’s busiest land crossing title till
date (Park & Koh, 2021). Each day, an estimation of 350000 commuters cross the
land journey (Kohar, 2018). Due to the lucrative exchange rate and close proximity,
the number of Malaysian migrants in Singapore has gone up from 195,072 in 1990 to
952,261 in 2019 (Loon, 2023). However, working overseas is not without
consequences. Malaysians often face a whole new host of challenges when they start
working in Singapore. Subsequently, this results in physical and mental health issues.
A study done in 2022 discovered that depression, anxiety and stress are widely
prevalent among foreign construction workers (Palaniappan et al., 2022). 29% of the
study population which consists of 348 participants showed signs of severe depression
(Palaniappan et al., 2022). During COVID-19 pandemic, Singapore reported a disease
prevalence rate 188 times higher amongst migrant workers (47%) than in the general
community (0.25%) (Saw et al, 2021). Many harboured fears about their health or
jobs which resulted in higher depression, anxiety and stress (Saw et al, 2021). In both
2016 and 2018, the Ministry of Human Resource of Malaysia did two studies on the
problems of Malaysian workers faced in Singapore. In the latest 2018 study, it was
revealed that among 2895 respondents, 59.9% of respondents who reside in Singapore
cited high cost of living as the main issue working in Singapore while 76.9% of
respondents who commute from Malaysia cited traffic as the main issue of working in
Singapore (Kohar, 2018). Therefore this study intends to further investigate the
current struggles of Malaysians working in Singapore in 2023 and propose
counselling solutions to alleviate their struggles.

3.0 Research Objectives

The aim of the study is to investigate the struggles of Malaysians working in

Singapore and propose counselling solutions to alleviate their struggles.

4.0 Method

The qualitative approach involves a variety of focused methods, including the

use of a naturalistic (natural) approach for research. Qualitative research is a process
of inquiry towards an underlying understanding of a common data collection method
used when surveying social problems. In this study, the researcher used research
methods fully qualitative because of the appropriateness of the purpose of the study
conducted. However, this method is very important to help the researcher explore the
research process in depth (Cresswell, 2014).

The qualitative method also helps researchers compile techniques such as

drawing, interpreting, translating and acquiring conclusions for a situation or findings
from data obtained by researchers from the study conducted. In this research study, a
qualitative approach was used by the researcher. A semi-structured interview was
conducted to collect more specific data related to the struggles and challenges
faced by Malaysians working in Singapore. The data obtained was analysed
thematically to obtain the information needed to answer the research questions. A
semi-structured interview was carried out to help obtain an in-depth explanation
regarding the effects and the current struggles of Malaysians working in Singapore
and subsequently propose counselling solutions according to the cited struggles or
findings.

There were four questions prepared and the identity of the respondents was
kept confidential. The interview session was conducted after the time was set with the
consent of the 15 respondents. The purpose is that the information presented will be
more transparent and the data collected will be obtained immediately. The interview
was done via google meet due to time constraints and the respondents cooperated
well. The researcher produced qualitative data from the audio obtained via google
meet . Next, the qualitative data were analysed manually by interpreting the interview
transcripts to obtain more detailed information. The next stage is the data conditioning
stage where the researcher reads repeatedly and understands the data received. When
listening to the recording of the interview, the researcher needs to make a note of
ideas, feelings and opinions.
The coding stage is a process of breaking down the data according to concepts
and it is also a way to classify the data according to the categories obtained from the
interviews. Followed by the coding process which is to identify the themes and
categories identified in the interview transcripts. Thematic analysis was used which is
a process of identifying, organising, describing, analysing and reporting patterns or
themes in a data set (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Its flexibility helps researchers organise
qualitative data (from interviews) into coded themes in greater detail.

Based on the four questions prepared, then the researcher can identify eight
themes that will strengthen the study being conducted. As we can see, here is a basic
overview of the conceptual guidance framework that will be used for a career
counsellor in order to guide their client. This conceptual framework also can be
applied for those Malaysians that are willing to migrate to another country and
focusing on working purposes.

1. WORK STRESS
2. LACK OF FAMILY
TIME
3. HEALTH ISSUE
COUNSELLING 4. HIGH COST OF
LIVING
5. TRAFFIC
CONGESTIONS
6. SEXUAL
HARASSMENT
7. LANGUAGE
BARRIER
8. REGRESSION

Conceptual framework themes.

These are the eight themes that the researchers outlined in identifying the
problems occurring among Malaysian citizens who are working abroad, especially in
Singapore. Those of this eight theme consists of work stress issues, lack of family
time, health issue among workers, high cost of living for the workers who decide
migrate especially in Singapore, traffic congestion that repeatedly happened to
workers who would travelled from Malaysia to Singapore, sexual harassment that
happened among female coworkers, language barrier for a non native speakers and
last but not least a sense of regression among the workers that decide to working
abroad.

5.0 Population and Sample

Population is defined as a group that has similar characteristics (Creswell,

2014). With that, for this study the researcher decided and selected Malaysians who
are working in Singapore. Researchers can obtain information related to a population
from several individuals who are members of the population (Najib, 2006). The type
of non-random sampling used is purposive sampling. This sampling method takes into
account a group of individuals with certain characteristics selected as research
respondents based on the researcher's knowledge and specific research objectives. In
this research that has been carried out, the selected respondents were the Malaysians
who work in Singapore currently. The research sample selected for this study are the
Malaysians who were among the researchers siblings, family and friends. 15
respondents were chosen for the interview sessions consisting of 10 males and 5
females and they have been working in Singapore for 5 to 10 years.

6.0 Research Instruments

Qualitative research is an inductive research where qualitative data is obtained

through observation, interview, document analysis or checklist to obtain complete
data on what is being researched. The purpose is to obtain empirical data from
investigations in the field (Chua Yan Piaw, 2021a). In his study, an interview protocol
was used to explore the factors that cause the challenges faced by the Malaysians
working in Singapore. This interview protocol was developed by the researchers by
themselves.
7.0 Data Collections

Interviews done with 15 Malaysians’ respondents who have been working in

Singapore. The process begins by getting to know the background of the respondents.
According to Merriam (1998), a semi -structured interview is an interview guided by
a list of questions or issues to be studied but not bound to the previously constructed
question structure. The researcher made an appointment to determine the date and
time of the respondents. Before that, the researcher explained in advance the purpose
and duration of the interview. Respondents as well be informed that the interviews
will be recorded for the convenience of the researcher managing the data collected.
Once permission is obtained, the researcher can continue the interview process.
Kamarul Jasmi (2012) explains that the researcher needs to start the interview session
by establishing a good relationship with respondents by asking general questions only
to ensure participants feel comfortable and open to answer questions.

These interview data and recorded audio collected so that a transcript can be
made and analysed. Upon completion of the interview process, the researcher re -
listened to the recording and made a transcript so that the interview can be written
perfectly. To further strengthen the researcher’s finding process, a full observation
method was used. This is to gain an understanding of a situation through things which
are shown through observation. This view is supported by Kamarul Jasmi (2012) that
observation plays a role as well as referring to the research process requires the social
interaction of the researcher and the respondent that is in the environment research
area

8.0 Findings

Interview Questions Themes Respondents (R) Total

(R)

1. How many years have you been

5 to 10 years R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, 15
working in Singapore?
R6, R7, R8, R9 R10,
R11, R12, R13, R14,
 R15

2. What are the challenges you face Work R1, R4, R8,R9 R15 5
while working in Singapore? Stress

Lack of R1, R15 2

Family Time

Health Issue R1, R2. R5, R11, 7

R12, R13, R14

High Cost of R2, R7 2

Living

Traffic R3, R5, R6, R11 4

Congestion

Sexual R9 1
Harassment

Language R10 1
Barrier

3. Do you regret working in Yes R1, R2, R7, R9, R10, 6

Singapore? R11

No R3, R5, R6, R8, R9, 7

R12, R13

4. What do you suggest to Counselling R1, R2, R3, R4, 11

counselling students? How can we R5, R6, R7, R8, R9,
help people who are struggling in Service R10, R14
Singapore?

No R11, R12, R13, R15 4

suggestions
given

The table above shows the interview questions and the themes.

8.1 Respondents Demographic

15 respondents were chosen among the researcher’s family, friends and

relatives. The respondents have been working in Singapore for 5 to 10 years. The
respondents consisted of 10 male and 5 females.

8.2 Themes
Researchers were able to identify 7 themes for the second interview question
which was what are the challenges you face while working in Singapore? 9 themes
were identified for the fourth interview question.

8.2.1. Themes for challengers

8.2.1.1 Theme 1 Work Stress

One of the challenges faced by the respondents was stress. Stress at the
workplace can arise from various sources, and it can affect individuals differently.
The respondents were stressed in the workplace because of having excessive or
unrealistic work demands. This includes tight deadlines, a heavy workload, or
constant pressure to meet targets. R1, R4, R8, R9 and R15 mentioned about the stress
they faced at the workplace which are very challenging.

The challenges that I face while working in Singapore are like stress at the
workplace…. R1
…..every workforce turned to be a very precious one may need to cover more than 1
person workload R4
….the stress and OTs at times are challenging with workload…. R8
 R9 and R15 also faced the same issue, the workload caused stress at work.

8.2.1.2 Theme 2 Lack of Family Time

It’s undeniable that the workers working in Singapore always had very limited
time with their family due to long working hours and travelling time. Same as
mentioned by R1 and R5 that the challenges they faced was lack of family time.

The challenges that I face while working in Singapore are stress at the workplace,
lack of family time. R1
Too busy to see my family…. R15.

8.2.1.3 Theme 3 Health Issues

Migrant workers are easily exposed to health risks at all stages of a migration
process. This might be due to limited access to medical and health services. The long
working hours and constant commuting also cause health issues, especially those who
are aged. 7 out of 15 respondents mentioned health issues as the challenges faced by
them. According to R1, R5 and R12 long working hours cause sickness while R2 said
the food intake caused the respondent's health issue.

I also always keep sick because of long working hours. R1

Then regarding health issues, I always eat at shops since I don’t have time to cook for
myself. I am always worried about the intake of my food when my health issues can
affect or not. R2
Long working hours and not enough sleep cause me to be sick…. R5

However, according to R11, R13 and R14 the injuries they had were the challenges
they faced while working in Singapore.

I injured my leg but company didn’t accept my Malaysian MC, so I still had to work
R13

I once met with an accident and had surgery for my whole spine. They put screws into
my spine. But I was only allowed to have 1 month MC. I am not a PR and I don’t have
CPF, just a work permit pass. So I can only claim a bit of insurance. I couldn’t claim
my emergency fee. R11

…..during the pandemic, it was a nightmare. One of my Malaysian colleagues

actually committed suicide due to health problem and it was covered up because we
weren’t allowed to rest or go back to Malaysia. R14
The health issue was the biggest challenge faced by the Malaysians working in
Singapore.

8.2.1.4 Theme 4 High Cost of Living

The high cost of living refers to the situation where the expenses associated
with maintaining a certain standard of living are relatively expensive, making it
challenging for individuals or families to meet their basic needs and maintain a
comfortable lifestyle. Several factors contribute to the high cost of living, and they
can vary depending on the region or country. According to R2, and R7 the high cost
of living was the challenge they faced.

The challenges that I face while working in Singapore are the high cost of living.
Because why - high housing cost, transportation expenses and the overall price of
goods and service can impact my disposable income sometimes. R2

…high expense for living (house rental) R7

8.2.1.5 Theme 5 Traffic Congestion

Traffic congestion occurs when the volume of vehicles on a road exceeds its
capacity, leading to a slowdown or standstill in the flow of traffic. The workers who
travel through the Johor-Singapore Causeway and Second Link, frequently face poor
traffic management and rising toll fees are sticky issues for the commuters (Tan,
2015). Everyday, it is estimated that 100,000 motorcyclists, 296,000 daily pedestrians
travelling to and fro across the Causeway and Second Link. The traffic congestion
was the challenge faced by the R3, R5, R6 and R11.
The challenges include traffic jam R5
The challenges are traffic jams on the border side; I need to manage time to avoid
traffic.. R6
The daily traffic jams are crazy R3 and R11

8.2.1.6 Theme 6 Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can create a hostile
and uncomfortable environment for employees. It is important to address and prevent
such behaviour to ensure a safe and respectful workplace. Respondent 9 mentioned
that the sexual harassment was one of the challenge faced while working in
Singapore.
There was sexual harassment. And no matter how much I complained, no one cared
and listened. At first they told me they would shift me to a new department but after
that nothing was done. R9

8.2.1.7 Theme 7 Language Barrier

A language barrier occurs when individuals who speak different languages

face challenges in communicating effectively. This barrier can arise in various
settings, including workplaces, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and
everyday social interactions. Respondent 10 in the research encountered this
challenge while working in Singapore. As R10 mentioned:
People tend to laugh at my English. They call me names like “Boleh”. I work a lot but
keep getting scolded and never get any promotion. I saw some of my Singapore
colleagues don’t speak good English too but they are never laughed at and they keep
getting good projects. R10

8.2.2.1 Regression

The third question was, do Malaysian workers regret working in Singapore?

According to the findings, 7 respondents agreed that they regretted working in
Singapore because they have to face a lot of challenges as mentioned earlier. However,
8 respondents said they did not regret working in Singapore because they can earn
more and live a better life here in Malaysia.

8.2.3. Themes for the suggestions to overcome the challenges faced

8.2.3.1 Counselling service

Counselling services for workers is a valuable initiative to support the mental

health and well-being of employees. 11 respondents suggested counselling service for
the Malaysians working in Singapore. The respondents suggested raising awareness
of counselling services among Malaysians working in Singapore, such as providing
platforms or information or advertising in some ways. The respondents also hope the
counselling service could help them in managing stress and other advice to overcome
their struggles.

Counselling students can help those who are struggling in Singapore by taking some
advice on career planning and how to reduce stress for those working in Singapore.
R1

…..stress management techniques which provide people with helpful techniques for
managing stress so they can handle the stress of working abroad. R2

Meanwhile other respondents hoped the counselling service could help them to be
strong physically and mentally. Just like R4, R5,R6, R14 and R15 mentioned about
physical and mental health.

Be mentally and physically ready before making the decision of getting a job in
Singapore. The work pace is totally different than in Malaysia… R4

They must be strong physically and mentally and also have high discipline to keep
trying to improve themself and family. do not give up. today's sacrifice for a better
future. R5

Can create one platform that is kindly easy for us to reach help if we are facing a
mental health problem. R6
I wish UTM could train their students better and if patients could find better mental
health with your counselling service, I believe many from Singapore would flock to jb
for this kind of service due to the cheaper exchange rate and the high demand over
here.. R14

People in jb are not very educated about mental health…there should be counselling
services….. R15

8.2.3.2 No Suggestions Given

Among 15 respondents, 4 respondents cited that counselling will not in any

way help to alleviate the struggles of Malaysians working in Singapore. According to
them no one would help them with the challenges they are facing. Just like R11 and
R12 said, the workers have to accept what they have chosen and they don’t believe in
anyone.

I don’t believe you can help.. R11

Life is like that. You can’t help it, just accept it. R12

we have no time. How to help? R13

The results of the study shows that there are many challenges faced by the Malaysians
working in Singapore, however they still continue to work there due to the currency
which helps them to live comfortably here in Malaysia. However the respondents also
suggested counselling services to help the workers to overcome their challenges faced
by them.

9.0 Conclusion

From the research done the challenges faced by the Malaysians working in
Singapore, are as follow:

1. Work stress

Working in a foreign country, like Malaysians working in Singapore, can

present additional challenges and stressors. Adapting to a new work culture and
environment can be challenging. The workers should take time to understand the
cultural nuances and expectations in the Singaporean workplace. Singapore is known
for its fast-paced and competitive work environment. It's important to maintain a
healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout. So, one should set boundaries and
prioritise self-care. They also should ensure that their housing situation is comfortable
and their commute is manageable. Long commutes or uncomfortable living
arrangements can contribute to stress.

2. Lack of family time

Balancing work and family time can be particularly challenging for

individuals working abroad, such as Malaysians working in Singapore. The workers
should clearly define work hours and make a conscious effort to stick with their
family members. Establishing clear boundaries helps create a separation between
work and personal life. They also should schedule dedicated time for their family in
advance and treat it with the same importance as work commitments. This could
include regular family dinners, weekend outings, or other activities. They also should
communicate with their family about their work commitments and schedule. This can
help manage expectations and foster understanding about the demands of their job.

3. Health Issue

Navigating work in a foreign country while dealing with health issues can be
challenging. The workers should familiarise themselves with the healthcare system in
Singapore. Most importantly they should know how to access medical services,
understand insurance coverage, and be aware of any specific healthcare policies for
expatriates. If their health condition requires workplace accommodations, discuss this
with their employer. Singaporean workplaces may have policies and procedures in
place to support employees with health challenges. However, the Malaysian workers
should prioritise their well-being and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Managing
stress is important for overall health, so make sure to allocate time for self-care and
relaxation.
4. High Cost of Living

The high cost of living is a significant concern for many individuals and
families. It can affect various aspects of daily life, including housing, transportation,
healthcare, education, and general expenses. In this research the workers could create
a detailed budget to track income and expenses. They should prioritise essential
expenses and identify areas where spending can be reduced. To reduce expenses they
should look for roommates or house-sharing arrangements to split housing costs in
Singapore. On the other hand they could plan meals in advance and prepare home-
cooked meals to save on dining out in Singapore which is very expensive

5. Traffic Congestion

Traffic congestion is a common issue in Singapore, given its limited land area,
high population density, and the substantial number of vehicles on the roads. The
government has implemented various measures to manage and alleviate traffic
congestion in which Singapore employs an Electronic Road Pricing system, where
drivers are charged varying tolls depending on the time of day, location, and level of
congestion. This system aims to encourage people to use public transport or travel
during off-peak hours. The Singapore government also has been working on
enhancing infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians to encourage alternative modes
of transport, especially for short-distance trips.

6. Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can have profound
effects on individuals and work environments. It can take various forms, including
unwanted advances, comments, or any unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature that
creates a hostile or intimidating work environment. Sexual harassment can manifest
in verbal, non-verbal, or physical forms. Therefore companies in Singapore should
have clear policies against sexual harassment and the employees should be aware of
these policies and reporting procedures. Besides, they should provide regular training
to employees on what constitutes sexual harassment and the importance of
maintaining a respectful workplace. This would encourage open communication
within the workplace and the employees should feel comfortable reporting incidents
without fear of retaliation.

7. Language Barriers

Singapore is a diverse and multicultural society with four official languages:

English, Malay, Mandarin Chinese, and Tamil. However, English is the primary
language used in business, education, and government. While English proficiency is
generally high, language barriers can still exist, particularly in certain contexts. In
professional settings, English is the dominant language. However, individuals who are
not native English speakers may face challenges in expressing themselves effectively.
Companies in Singapore often promote a diverse and inclusive environment,
recognizing and addressing language-related issues. In the service sector, especially in
areas with a high tourist population, service staff may be proficient in English.
However, some individuals may be more comfortable communicating in Mandarin
Chinese or another language. So those who are planning to work in Singapore, should
have at least a basic language proficiency.

Our investigation showed how significant and prevalent the struggles of

Malaysians working in Singapore are. The 3 most striking struggles are work stress,
health issues and traffic congestion. This corroborates with the findings of the
Ministry of Human Resources in 2018. Despite the tenuous struggles of Malaysians
working in Singapore, many still do not consider coming back to Malaysia and are not
receiving any kind of help. Our findings also showed that a portion of Malaysians do
not comprehend the concept of counselling at all or are dubious about how
counselling would ever help them. Many have resigned to their fate of struggles
without receiving any support. Among those who understood the service of
counselling, they have suggested that raising awareness as one of the key ways to
assist. This suggests the vast ignorance of counselling available in Malaysia in general.
Only two respondents revealed that they sought professional mental health assistance
in Malaysia with great cost. As such, it is essential to introduce career counselling
services at a young age. We proposed introducing career development services since
highschool to expose students to the various industries available in Malaysia.
According to Super’s theory, age 14 to 18 is the stage where youth formulate a
general vocational goal through awareness of resources, contingency, interests, values
and planning. Schools can run the RIASEC test or MBTI test to categorise individuals
into six personality types and suggest suitable courses or careers. One respondent
suggested a collaboration between counsellors and job fair or job search agencies to
provide career counselling before sourcing for jobs.
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 Appendix

Interview Questions

1. What are your challenges you face while working in Singapore?

2. Do you regret working in Singapore?

3. What do you suggest to counselling students? How can we help people who are
struggling in Singapore?

Transcript

Respondent 1

1.The challenges that I face while working in Singapore are stress at the workplace,
lack of family time. I also always keep sick cause of long working hours.

2.Yes, I regret working in Singapore

3.Counselling students can help those who are struggling in Singapore by taking some
advice on career planning and how to reduce stress for those working in Singapore.