GROWING UP IN Penang, my early exposure to Hollywood movies and TV sitcoms painted an idealistic portrait of first-world living—independence, glamorous jobs, nice houses in upscale neighbourhoods and the freedom to pursue anything without constraints. They epitomised the essence of the American Dream; and I yearned for the day I could finally leave this small town and lead a big life. Yet, as reality set in, I chose Australia as the destination to pursue my tertiary education because of its proximity to Malaysia and its more affordable tuition fees (and the lovely weather).

It has been two decades since I returned home upon graduating.

What led me back to my homeland, when my heart longed for the adventure of living on distant shores? Hailing from a modest background, my parents supported my education abroad with the understanding that I would return upon completing my studies—to contribute to both my family and the community. For me, the decision to return was obvious and unquestionable.

Is the Grass Always Greener?

Brain drain has been a chronic, and perhaps, even worsening, issue in Malaysia; most youths in the country harbour aspirations to pursue opportunities abroad. Reasons for this abound: political instability, inequalities and lack of economic opportunities top the list. Just last year, Malaysia’s former Minister of Human Resources, V. Sivakumar, revealed that as of 2022, 1.13 mil out of 1.86 mil Malaysians who migrated abroad were living in Singapore. While Singapore alone absorbs over 60% of Malaysia’s diaspora, most of the remainder reside in countries such as the UK and the US.

I had just spoken to a dear friend who had returned from Singapore a few years ago about life in Penang versus the hustle and bustle of the Lion City. She expressed her preference for the laid-back atmosphere of Penang, where she is closer to her family, and can lead a more peaceful and socially fulfilling life.

For her, the allure of Penang lies not just in its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture or delectable cuisine, but also in the intangible sense of belonging and connection she feels here. It is a place where time seems to slow down, allowing for moments of quiet reflection and cherished gatherings with loved ones.

In contrast, she described Singapore as a city caught in the whirlwind of the rat race—a place where the pursuit of success and material wealth often takes precedence over the simple joys of life. While acknowledging the vibrancy and dynamism of Singapore, she found herself longing for a different rhythm, a pace that prioritises quality of life over the relentless pursuit of success.

Listening to her reflections, I cannot help but resonate with them. While there are moments of envy when friends who are living abroad regale their experiences, I have also eventually found solace in the simplicity of my life here. In a world that often over-glorifies the fast-paced lifestyle of big cities, it is refreshing to be reminded of the beauty and simplicity of a life well-lived—one enriched by family love, community warmth and the timeless charm of a place like Penang.

The Bright Side

Government initiatives like the Returning Expert Programme (REP) strive to repatriate Malaysian professionals abroad, but there needs to be a broader focus on policies aimed at nurturing, upskilling and reskilling young local talents from the onset. If our talents are to be incentivised to stay and thrive within the country and contribute to its economic growth, it is first and foremost vital to reduce pay gaps to foster equitable workplaces and boost workforce productivity.

Other than wage disparities, Malaysia’s political issues, infrastructural deficiencies and overall quality of life must be improved. By tackling these challenges head-on, we can create a more inviting environment for not just Malaysians living abroad, but also foreign talents.

Besides, the decision of where to live and work has become much more fluid in today’s interconnected world. With advancements in technology and evolving preferences for remote work, individuals now have the flexibility and ability to work anywhere and at any time without being tied to a specific location or office. Could this be a part of the solution for Malaysia’s brain drain issue?

All that being said, I still firmly believe that the diverse interactions with people of other cultures, backgrounds and ethnicities as well as immersion in foreign experiences are invaluable for both personal and professional growth.

Through my previous work engagements, I have had the privilege of visiting countries like Europe and the US, on top of a short working stint in China. These experiences enabled me to gain different perspectives, learn from the best and apply that knowledge locally. Access to diverse perspectives and valuable global expertise, particularly through opportunities that are not commonly available in the country, remain important for Malaysians to be competitive.

We often hold the misconception that those who are living abroad are the ones who have truly succeeded—however, there are accomplished individuals within our own borders, excelling in their respective fields. After all, every place comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks, and decisions on where to live entail weighing these trade-offs carefully. Opportunities abound when we take a closer look, and with determination and the right mindset, we can succeed no matter where we are.