Malaysia's rapid urbanization and continuous development of commercial and residential properties have increased the need for reliable cleaning and maintenance services. This demand ensures consistent job opportunities across various sectors.
The industry offers stable and long-term employment, especially in major cities. Many businesses and institutions outsource cleaning and maintenance, creating continuous openings for workers.
Workers in this field can acquire valuable technical and practical skills, such as equipment handling, safety procedures, and specialized cleaning techniques, which can lead to career advancement.
This sector typically requires minimal educational qualifications, making it accessible to a wide range of job seekers, including entry-level workers and those switching careers.
With experience, workers can progress to supervisory or managerial roles. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas like industrial cleaning, HVAC maintenance, or sanitation services.
The cleaning and maintenance industry is considered essential, particularly in healthcare, hospitality, and public services. This resilience makes it less vulnerable to economic downturns compared to other industries.
Working in this sector plays a critical role in maintaining hygienic and safe environments, which is especially important in the wake of global health concerns.
The industry often provides flexible working hours, including part-time and shift-based work, which can accommodate a variety of lifestyles and personal commitments.
Malaysia’s cleaning and maintenance industry is evolving with smart technologies, eco-friendly solutions, and modern techniques. International candidates have the opportunity to engage in innovative practices such as green cleaning, robotic floor care, and IoT-based maintenance systems.
Malaysia is known for its multicultural workforce. International candidates working in this sector will experience a diverse and inclusive environment, promoting cross-cultural collaboration and understanding.
Many companies provide structured training programs, safety certifications, and skills development courses that are recognized locally and sometimes internationally—helping foreign workers build professional credentials.
Malaysia serves as a strategic hub in Southeast Asia. Gaining experience here can open doors to opportunities across neighboring countries, especially within multinational facility management companies.
The government regulates employment of foreign labor through proper legal channels, offering protections and guidelines that benefit both employers and international staff, ensuring fair treatment and working conditions.
Compared to many other countries, Malaysia offers a relatively low cost of living. International workers can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while saving money, making it an attractive option for long-term employment.
International candidates who show dedication and skill may advance into supervisory or specialist roles, especially in large firms or international cleaning and maintenance service providers.
By working in this field, international workers play a vital role in supporting Malaysia’s urban development goals—helping keep facilities clean, efficient, and environmentally responsible.
Responsible for basic cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, and emptying trash in offices, malls, schools, and residential buildings.
Handles routine cleaning duties in larger facilities, often during non-business hours. Tasks may include floor care, restroom sanitation, and supply restocking.
Common in hotels, hospitals, and residential complexes, housekeeping roles focus on maintaining cleanliness in rooms, common areas, and restrooms.
Specializes in cleaning windows and glass surfaces, including high-rise buildings using safety harnesses and professional equipment.
Performs inspections and applies treatments to control insects, rodents, and other pests within buildings, ensuring a hygienic environment.
Carries out general repair and maintenance of building systems including electrical, plumbing, lighting, and HVAC units.
Oversees cleaning and maintenance teams, ensures task completion, maintains schedules, and liaises with building management or clients.
Responsible for maintaining gardens, lawns, and outdoor areas of properties, often working alongside building cleaning teams for complete upkeep.
Focuses on deep cleaning and disinfecting high-contact areas in commercial and healthcare settings to maintain high hygiene standards.
Trained to handle specific cleaning services such as carpet shampooing, floor polishing, industrial equipment cleaning, and hazardous material handling.
Job Profile |
Salary (MYR) |
Salary (USD) |
Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
General Cleaner |
1,500 – 1,800 |
323 – 387 |
26,785 – 32,140 |
|
Janitor / Custodian |
1,700 – 2,000 |
366 – 430 |
30,370 – 35,730 |
|
Housekeeping Staff |
1,600 – 2,000 |
344 – 430 |
28,570 – 35,730 |
|
Window Cleaner |
1,800 – 2,200 |
387 – 473 |
32,140 – 39,270 |
|
Sanitation Worker |
1,800 – 2,400 |
387 – 516 |
32,140 – 42,850 |
|
Landscape Maintenance Worker |
1,700 – 2,100 |
366 – 452 |
30,370 – 37,500 |
|
Pest Control Technician |
2,000 – 2,500 |
430 – 538 |
35,730 – 44,660 |
|
Maintenance Technician |
2,200 – 2,800 |
473 – 602 |
39,270 – 50,000 |
|
Electrical Maintenance Worker |
2,400 – 3,200 |
516 – 688 |
42,850 – 57,140 |
|
HVAC Technician |
2,500 – 3,500 |
538 – 753 |
44,660 – 62,500 |
|
Plumber |
2,300 – 3,000 |
495 – 645 |
41,070 – 53,570 |
|
Painter |
2,000 – 2,700 |
430 – 581 |
35,730 – 48,210 |
|
Carpenter |
2,300 – 3,000 |
495 – 645 |
41,070 – 53,570 |
|
Floor Polishing Technician |
1,900 – 2,300 |
409 – 495 |
33,920 – 41,070 |
|
Carpet Cleaning Technician |
1,800 – 2,200 |
387 – 473 |
32,140 – 39,270 |
|
Waste Management Worker |
1,700 – 2,100 |
366 – 452 |
30,370 – 37,500 |
|
Specialized Cleaning Technician |
2,000 – 2,800 |
430 – 602 |
35,730 – 50,000 |
|
Building Maintenance Supervisor |
3,000 – 4,200 |
645 – 903 |
53,570 – 75,000 |
|
Facility Supervisor |
3,500 – 4,500 |
753 – 968 |
62,500 – 80,360 |
|
Operations Manager (Facilities) |
5,000 – 6,500 |
1,075 – 1,398 |
89,280 – 116,070 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Minimum Age |
18 years and above |
|
Educational Qualification |
Usually no formal education required for entry-level jobs; basic literacy preferred |
|
Work Experience |
Not mandatory for general cleaning roles; technical jobs (e.g., HVAC, plumbing) may require 1–3 years of experience |
|
Skills Required |
Basic cleaning knowledge, hygiene awareness; technical roles require specific trade skills (e.g., electrical, plumbing) |
|
Language Proficiency |
Basic English or Malay preferred for communication; some employers provide language training |
|
Medical Fitness |
Must pass a medical examination certified by a recognized clinic in the home country and/or in Malaysia |
|
Valid Passport |
Must have a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of travel |
|
Employment Visa / Work Permit |
Required; employer in Malaysia must apply for a foreign worker permit (usually through the Immigration Department of Malaysia) |
|
Country Eligibility |
Only citizens from approved source countries (e.g., Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nepal, India, Philippines, Vietnam) are allowed for low-skilled jobs |
|
Legal Clearance |
Police clearance or background check may be required, depending on the employer |
|
Job Offer / Employment Contract |
Must have a formal job offer from a licensed Malaysian employer or recruitment agency |
|
Sponsorship by Employer |
Employer must be responsible for the visa application, accommodation, and welfare of the worker |
Job Profile |
General Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
General Cleaner |
Perform basic cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting interior spaces. |
|
Janitor / Custodian |
Clean and maintain restrooms, hallways, and lobbies; manage waste disposal and minor building upkeep. |
|
Housekeeping Staff |
Maintain cleanliness in rooms and common areas; replenish supplies and report maintenance issues. |
|
Window Cleaner |
Clean interior and exterior glass surfaces, including high-rise windows using appropriate safety gear. |
|
Sanitation Worker |
Deep clean high-contact surfaces; handle disinfectants and follow hygiene protocols in critical areas. |
|
Pest Control Technician |
Inspect buildings for pest activity; apply treatment methods and maintain safety procedures. |
|
Maintenance Technician |
Conduct general building repairs, including electrical, plumbing, and fixture maintenance. |
|
Electrical Maintenance Worker |
Install, maintain, and repair electrical systems, wiring, and fixtures in buildings. |
|
Plumber |
Fix plumbing systems, repair leaks, install piping, and conduct routine water system inspections. |
|
HVAC Technician |
Maintain and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems in commercial and residential buildings. |
|
Carpenter |
Perform woodwork and repairs on furniture, doors, windows, and fixtures within buildings. |
|
Painter |
Prepare and paint interior and exterior surfaces; conduct surface touch-ups and apply protective coatings. |
|
Waste Management Worker |
Collect, sort, and dispose of waste materials; follow recycling and environmental guidelines. |
|
Floor Polishing Technician |
Operate floor machines to strip, wax, and polish floors in commercial or residential properties. |
|
Carpet Cleaning Technician |
Use steam or chemical cleaning methods to clean carpets and upholstery in buildings. |
|
Landscape Maintenance Worker |
Maintain outdoor spaces, lawns, gardens, and pathways; handle watering, pruning, and weeding tasks. |
|
Specialized Cleaning Technician |
Handle industrial cleaning, high-pressure washing, or hazardous material cleanup using advanced tools. |
|
Building Maintenance Supervisor |
Supervise cleaning and maintenance staff; schedule shifts, inspect work quality, and manage supplies. |
|
Facility Supervisor |
Oversee facility operations, coordinate maintenance activities, and ensure building safety compliance. |
|
Operations Manager (Facilities) |
Manage budgets, contracts, staff, and overall strategy for building operations and maintenance. |
Job Profile |
Educational Qualification |
Experience Required |
Skills Needed |
Other Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
General Cleaner |
No formal education |
Not mandatory |
Basic cleaning, hygiene awareness |
Physically fit, basic Malay or English |
|
Janitor / Custodian |
Basic schooling preferred |
0–1 year |
Cleaning tools usage, time management |
Willingness to work in shifts |
|
Housekeeping Staff |
Basic literacy |
Not mandatory |
Attention to detail, guest etiquette |
Medical fitness, uniform compliance |
|
Window Cleaner |
Basic education |
1+ year (preferred) |
Safety awareness, working at heights |
Safety harness certification |
|
Sanitation Worker |
Basic literacy |
Not mandatory |
Use of disinfectants, hygiene protocol |
Health clearance, PPE compliance |
|
Pest Control Technician |
Secondary education |
1–2 years |
Chemical handling, pest ID |
Valid pest control certification (if required) |
|
Maintenance Technician |
Vocational/Technical certificate |
1–3 years |
General repair, troubleshooting |
Basic electrical/plumbing knowledge |
|
Electrical Maintenance Worker |
Vocational in Electrical |
2+ years |
Wiring, circuit repair |
Relevant license/certification |
|
Plumber |
Vocational in Plumbing |
2+ years |
Pipe installation, leak repair |
Tool handling, blueprint reading |
|
HVAC Technician |
Diploma/Certificate in HVAC |
2–3 years |
AC maintenance, refrigerant handling |
EPA or local certification (preferred) |
|
Carpenter |
Trade school or hands-on training |
2+ years |
Woodwork, measurement accuracy |
Tool safety awareness |
|
Painter |
No formal education |
1–2 years |
Surface prep, paint application |
Height comfort, steady hand |
|
Waste Management Worker |
Basic schooling |
Not mandatory |
Sorting, lifting, environmental safety |
Proper PPE use, physical strength |
|
Floor Polishing Technician |
Basic education |
1+ year |
Floor machines, polishing techniques |
Safety compliance, chemical usage |
|
Carpet Cleaning Technician |
Basic literacy |
1+ year |
Shampooing, vacuuming, stain removal |
Use of cleaning equipment |
|
Landscape Maintenance Worker |
Basic schooling |
0–1 year |
Gardening tools, plant care |
Outdoor work readiness |
|
Specialized Cleaning Technician |
Vocational or on-job training |
2–3 years |
Machinery use, chemical handling |
Safety certification (where applicable) |
|
Building Maintenance Supervisor |
Diploma or technical certificate |
3–5 years |
Team management, maintenance knowledge |
Leadership ability, communication skills |
|
Facility Supervisor |
Diploma/Bachelor's preferred |
4–6 years |
Facility systems knowledge, scheduling |
Strong leadership, multitasking |
|
Operations Manager (Facilities) |
Degree in Facilities/Engineering |
6–8 years |
Budgeting, staff and resource management |
Excellent communication and planning skills |
Job Profile |
Experience Required |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|
|
General Cleaner |
Not mandatory |
On-the-job training usually provided |
|
Janitor / Custodian |
0–1 year |
Prior cleaning experience preferred but not essential |
|
Housekeeping Staff |
0–1 year |
Hotel or hospital housekeeping experience is an advantage |
|
Window Cleaner |
1–2 years |
Required especially for high-rise or industrial cleaning jobs |
|
Sanitation Worker |
0–1 year |
Experience in hospitals or food facilities is a plus |
|
Pest Control Technician |
1–2 years |
Must know pest control procedures and safety protocols |
|
Maintenance Technician |
1–3 years |
Basic experience in electrical, plumbing, or mechanical repair needed |
|
Electrical Maintenance Worker |
2–3 years |
Technical experience and practical knowledge are required |
|
Plumber |
2–3 years |
Must have hands-on plumbing repair and installation experience |
|
HVAC Technician |
2–4 years |
Experience with AC systems, refrigerants, and troubleshooting |
|
Carpenter |
2–3 years |
Skilled work requires prior woodwork and repair experience |
|
Painter |
1–2 years |
Surface prep and finishing skills required |
|
Waste Management Worker |
Not mandatory |
On-site training provided; physical endurance is more important than prior experience |
|
Floor Polishing Technician |
1–2 years |
Machine handling and surface care knowledge preferred |
|
Carpet Cleaning Technician |
1–2 years |
Experience with steam/chemical cleaning tools helpful |
|
Landscape Maintenance Worker |
0–1 year |
Prior gardening or outdoor work experience is helpful |
|
Specialized Cleaning Technician |
2–3 years |
Needed for industrial, chemical, or hazardous material cleaning |
|
Building Maintenance Supervisor |
3–5 years |
Must have team leadership experience and multi-skill technical background |
|
Facility Supervisor |
4–6 years |
Strong supervisory experience in maintenance or facility operations required |
|
Operations Manager (Facilities) |
6–8 years |
Proven track record managing buildings, budgets, and teams in facility management |
Company Name |
Type of Services |
Common Job Roles Hired |
Hiring International Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UEMS Group Berhad |
Integrated facility management & healthcare support |
Cleaners, Housekeepers, Technicians |
Yes |
|
ISS Facility Services Malaysia |
Global facility services provider |
Cleaners, Janitors, Supervisors |
Yes |
|
Damai Service Hospital & Subsidiaries |
Healthcare cleaning & support services |
Housekeepers, Sanitation Workers |
Yes |
|
MyCleaners Sdn Bhd |
Commercial & residential cleaning |
General Cleaners, Carpet Cleaners |
Yes |
|
Edgenta UEMS (by UEM Edgenta Berhad) |
Hospital support services & facilities management |
Housekeeping Staff, Maintenance Technicians |
Yes |
|
Kleenway Services Sdn Bhd |
Janitorial & specialized cleaning services |
Cleaners, Floor Care Technicians |
Yes |
|
KJTS Group Berhad |
Property services, HVAC, and building maintenance |
HVAC Technicians, Plumbers, Electricians |
Yes |
|
OCS Group Malaysia |
Integrated facilities and environmental services |
Cleaning Staff, Facility Supervisors |
Yes |
|
Eco Interior Supplies / EcoClean |
Green cleaning solutions |
Specialized Cleaners, Sanitation Workers |
Yes |
|
TMS Group Malaysia |
Facility and building maintenance services |
General Cleaners, Maintenance Workers |
Yes |
|
Rentokil Initial Malaysia |
Hygiene & pest control solutions |
Pest Control Technicians, Washroom Service Staff |
Yes |
|
NCT Clean |
Commercial cleaning and disinfection services |
Cleaners, Sanitation Workers |
Yes |
|
Daya Secadyme Sdn Bhd |
Industrial and building maintenance services |
Technicians, Specialized Cleaning Staff |
Yes |
|
Facilities Management Company (FMC) |
Property and maintenance services |
Facility Technicians, Supervisors |
Yes |
|
Sunway Facility Management |
Property & asset maintenance (part of Sunway Group) |
Supervisors, Maintenance Technicians |
Yes (select roles) |
Job Profile |
Salary (MYR/month) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
General Cleaner |
1,500 – 1,800 |
No formal education, physically fit, basic cleaning knowledge |
UEMS, ISS, MyCleaners, Kleenway |
Perform basic cleaning tasks: mopping, sweeping, dusting, waste removal |
|
Janitor / Custodian |
1,700 – 2,000 |
0–1 year exp., basic hygiene knowledge |
ISS, TMS Group, OCS |
Clean restrooms, lobbies, and maintain cleanliness of public areas |
|
Housekeeping Staff |
1,600 – 2,000 |
Basic literacy, 0–1 year exp. in hotels/hospitals preferred |
UEMS, Damai Hospital, Sunway FM |
Clean rooms, change linens, restock supplies |
|
Window Cleaner |
1,800 – 2,200 |
1–2 years exp., height safety knowledge |
Kleenway, MyCleaners, EcoClean |
Clean interior and exterior windows using tools or rope-access systems |
|
Sanitation Worker |
1,800 – 2,400 |
Physically fit, aware of sanitation protocols, PPE use |
UEMS, NCT Clean, ISS |
Disinfect high-touch surfaces, maintain hygiene in sensitive areas |
|
Pest Control Technician |
2,000 – 2,500 |
1–2 years exp., pest control license (preferred) |
Rentokil, UEMS, Edgenta |
Inspect, apply pest treatments, maintain logs |
|
Maintenance Technician |
2,200 – 2,800 |
1–3 years exp., vocational certificate in general maintenance |
Edgenta, ISS, TMS Group |
General repairs: electrical, plumbing, basic systems |
|
Electrical Technician |
2,400 – 3,200 |
2+ years exp., certified in electrical work |
KJTS, FMC, UEMS |
Install, repair, maintain electrical wiring and equipment |
|
Plumber |
2,300 – 3,000 |
2–3 years exp., plumbing certification |
Edgenta, TMS Group, KJTS |
Repair leaks, install piping, unblock drains |
|
HVAC Technician |
2,500 – 3,500 |
2–4 years exp., HVAC diploma/certificate |
KJTS, FMC, ISS |
Maintain and repair air conditioning and ventilation systems |
|
Painter |
2,000 – 2,700 |
1–2 years exp., experience with painting tools |
FMC, Daya Secadyme, ISS |
Paint interior/exterior surfaces, prepare surfaces, apply coatings |
|
Carpenter |
2,300 – 3,000 |
2+ years exp., skilled in woodworking |
Edgenta, TMS, FMC |
Build or repair wood structures and furniture |
|
Waste Management Worker |
1,700 – 2,100 |
No experience required, physically fit |
NCT Clean, ISS, OCS |
Collect and dispose of garbage, follow recycling protocols |
|
Floor Polishing Technician |
1,900 – 2,300 |
1–2 years exp., experience with polishing machines |
MyCleaners, Kleenway |
Operate machines for polishing, waxing, and stripping floors |
|
Carpet Cleaning Technician |
1,800 – 2,200 |
1+ year exp., knowledge of steam or chemical cleaning |
MyCleaners, EcoClean |
Deep clean carpets and upholstery with special equipment |
|
Landscape Worker |
1,700 – 2,100 |
0–1 year exp., gardening knowledge preferred |
Sunway FM, ISS, FMC |
Maintain outdoor grounds, water plants, mow lawns |
|
Specialized Cleaning Tech |
2,000 – 2,800 |
2–3 years exp., trained in industrial or hazardous cleaning |
Daya Secadyme, EcoClean |
High-level or industrial cleaning using advanced equipment |
|
Building Maintenance Supervisor |
3,000 – 4,200 |
3–5 years exp., team leadership skills, technical knowledge |
UEMS, FMC, TMS Group |
Supervise maintenance staff, inspect tasks, schedule repairs |
|
Facility Supervisor |
3,500 – 4,500 |
4–6 years exp., strong operational and technical background |
Edgenta, ISS, Sunway FM |
Oversee facility operations, handle contracts, manage staff |
|
Operations Manager |
5,000 – 6,500 |
6–8 years exp., degree in facility management preferred |
ISS, UEMS, OCS, KJTS |
Manage budgets, strategy, staff, and service delivery for buildings |
Visa Type |
Purpose |
Validity |
Eligibility |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Foreign Worker Employment Pass |
For low- and semi-skilled foreign workers in selected sectors (e.g., cleaning, maintenance) |
1–3 years (renewable) |
Citizens from approved source countries; sponsored by a licensed Malaysian employer |
Employer applies through Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) and Immigration Department |
|
Temporary Employment Visit Pass (PLKS) |
For foreign workers in approved sectors, including building maintenance |
1 year (renewable up to 10 years) |
Aged 18–45, physically fit, medically certified, from approved source countries |
Employer submits application via ePPAx system, with FOMEMA medical clearance |
|
Maid Visa (Domestic Helper - PLKS) |
For foreign domestic workers, sometimes includes cleaning duties |
1 year (renewable) |
Female candidates, aged 21–45, with sponsor (individual employer) |
Apply through approved agency and get MOHA and Immigration Department approval |
|
Professional Visit Pass (PVP) |
For short-term technical or specialist roles (e.g., equipment servicing) |
Up to 12 months |
Skilled or semi-skilled technicians visiting temporarily |
Employer or Malaysian sponsor applies to Immigration Department |
|
Expatriate Employment Pass (Category III) |
For skilled maintenance professionals with technical roles |
1–2 years |
Minimum salary RM3,000/month, contract-based employment |
Application through Expatriate Services Division (ESD) by employer |