Multicultural Environment: Malaysia's multicultural society contributes to a diverse creative industry that caters to different languages, traditions, and artistic expressions. International citizens with unique perspectives and skills can find opportunities to contribute to this creative melting pot.
Digital Media and Advertising: The rise of digital media and online advertising has increased the demand for creative professionals in areas such as graphic design, web design, user experience (UX) design, and digital marketing.
Film and Animation: Malaysia has a growing film and animation industry, with opportunities in animation studios, post-production houses, and film production companies.
Fashion and Apparel Design: Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, is known for its fashion and apparel industry, offering opportunities for fashion designers, stylists, and merchandisers.
Gaming and Interactive Media: The gaming and interactive media sector is thriving in Malaysia, with opportunities in game development, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) experiences.
Arts and Cultural Events: Malaysia hosts various arts and cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions, creating opportunities for artists, event organizers, and curators.
Design Agencies and Studios: Creative design agencies and studios often seek international talent with diverse design and creative skills to contribute to projects for local and international clients.
Education and Training: There are also opportunities for international citizens to work in educational institutions and training centers as art educators, instructors, or workshop facilitators.
Freelancing and Remote Work: With the advancement of technology, freelancing and remote work opportunities have expanded in the creative industry, allowing international citizens to collaborate with clients from Malaysia and around the world.
| Job Profile | Average Salary (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | RM 3,000 - RM 5,000 |
| Web Designer | RM 3,500 - RM 6,000 |
| UX/UI Designer | RM 4,000 - RM 7,000 |
| Motion Graphic Designer | RM 4,500 - RM 7,500 |
| Video Editor | RM 3,500 - RM 6,000 |
| Animator | RM 3,500 - RM 6,000 |
| 3D Artist | RM 4,000 - RM 7,000 |
| Fashion Designer | RM 3,500 - RM 6,000 |
| Textile Designer | RM 3,000 - RM 5,000 |
| Interior Designer | RM 4,000 - RM 7,000 |
| Architectural Visualization | RM 4,500 - RM 7,500 |
| Art Director | RM 5,000 - RM 8,000 |
| Creative Director | RM 6,000 - RM 10,000 |
| Advertising Copywriter | RM 3,500 - RM 6,000 |
| Branding Specialist | RM 4,000 - RM 7,000 |
| Marketing Coordinator | RM 3,000 - RM 5,000 |
| Event Coordinator | RM 3,500 - RM 6,000 |
| Multimedia Artist | RM 4,000 - RM 7,000 |
| Art Teacher/Instructor | RM 3,000 - RM 5,500 |
| Exhibition Curator | RM 4,500 - RM 7,500 |
Work Visa/Permit: International job applicants must obtain a valid work visa or work permit to work legally in Malaysia. The specific type of visa or permit required will depend on the nature of the job and the duration of employment. Employers typically assist with the visa application process, and applicants should ensure they meet all the requirements set by the Malaysian government.
Language Proficiency: While English is widely spoken and used in the creative industry in Malaysia, proficiency in other languages, such as Malay or Chinese, may also be advantageous, especially for roles that involve working with local clients or audiences.
Qualifications and Experience: The specific qualifications and experience required will vary based on the job position and the employer's preferences. For example, graphic designers may need relevant design qualifications and a portfolio of past work, while art teachers might require teaching certifications and experience.
Portfolio and Demonstrated Skills: Many creative roles in Malaysia may require applicants to showcase their portfolios or past work to demonstrate their skills and abilities. A strong portfolio can significantly enhance job prospects.
Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the local creative industry and understanding of cultural nuances and preferences can be beneficial for international job applicants.
Employer Sponsorship: Many international job applicants secure employment in Malaysia through employer sponsorship. Employers must demonstrate that they could not find suitable candidates locally before hiring foreign workers.
Networking and Job Search: International job seekers can explore job portals, company websites, and professional networking platforms to find job opportunities in the creative art and design industry in Malaysia. Networking with professionals in the industry can also be valuable.
Legal Requirements: International job applicants must comply with all legal requirements set by the Malaysian government and adhere to the country's labor laws.
Employer's Support: Employers are responsible for ensuring that international employees have the necessary permits and are compliant with all employment regulations. It's essential to work with a reputable and responsible employer to avoid any legal issues.
| Job Profile | General Roles and Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | - Creating visual concepts and designs for various print and digital media. - Developing artwork and layouts for marketing materials, logos, brochures, and websites. - Collaborating with clients and team members to understand design requirements. - Using design software and tools to produce high-quality graphics. - Ensuring designs align with brand guidelines and project objectives. |
| Web Designer | - Designing and developing visually appealing and user-friendly websites. - Creating wireframes and prototypes to plan site structures and interactions. - Optimizing web designs for responsiveness and compatibility across devices. - Collaborating with web developers and content creators to bring the design to life. - Ensuring web designs adhere to user experience (UX) principles and accessibility standards. |
| UX/UI Designer | - Improving user experience by designing intuitive interfaces for digital products. - Conducting user research and usability testing to gather insights for design improvements. - Creating wireframes, user flows, and interactive prototypes. - Collaborating with cross-functional teams to iterate and refine designs based on feedback. - Balancing aesthetic appeal with functional design elements to enhance user engagement. |
| Motion Graphic Designer | - Creating animated visuals and motion graphics for video projects. - Developing storyboards and animatics to plan video sequences. - Incorporating visual effects and animations into videos. - Collaborating with video editors and producers to enhance storytelling through motion graphics. - Staying updated with industry trends and best practices in motion design. |
| Video Editor | - Assembling recorded video footage and editing it to create polished video content. - Trimming, adding transitions, and applying visual effects to enhance video quality. - Incorporating audio, music, and sound effects into videos. - Collaborating with content creators and directors to align with the overall vision of the project. - Ensuring video projects meet quality standards and are delivered on time. |
| Animator | - Creating 2D or 3D animations for films, commercials, games, or multimedia projects. - Developing character designs and storyboards for animation sequences. - Bringing characters and scenes to life through movement and expressions. - Collaborating with animators, modelers, and directors to ensure a cohesive animation style. - Ensuring animations are consistent with the project's artistic direction and storytelling requirements. |
| 3D Artist | - Producing 3D models, textures, and visual assets for games, movies, or architectural visualization. - Using 3D modeling software to create realistic and detailed objects. - Collaborating with artists, animators, and designers to integrate 3D assets into projects. - Optimizing 3D models for performance and visual quality. - Staying updated with industry advancements and techniques in 3D modeling and rendering. |
| Fashion Designer | - Creating original fashion designs for clothing, accessories, or footwear. - Developing sketches and prototypes to bring design concepts to life. - Selecting appropriate fabrics, colors, and patterns for designs. - Collaborating with manufacturers and pattern makers for production. - Participating in fashion shows and events to showcase collections. - Staying informed about fashion trends and consumer preferences. |
| Textile Designer | - Designing patterns and prints for textiles and fabrics. - Developing colorways and coordinating designs for different fabric materials. - Collaborating with manufacturers and suppliers to ensure accurate printing and production. - Creating swatches and sample designs for client presentations. - Staying updated with textile and print trends and techniques. |
| Interior Designer | - Planning and designing interior spaces for residential or commercial properties. - Creating layout proposals, mood boards, and 3D visualizations. - Selecting furniture, fixtures, and materials for interior projects. - Coordinating with contractors and suppliers during the implementation phase. - Ensuring designs comply with building codes and regulations. - Creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior environments. |
| Architectural Visualization | - Developing 3D architectural visualizations and renderings for building projects. - Creating realistic representations of exterior and interior spaces. - Utilizing lighting, materials, and textures to enhance visual impact. - Collaborating with architects and designers to interpret architectural plans. - Ensuring visualizations meet client requirements and project objectives. |
| Art Director | - Overseeing and guiding the artistic direction of creative projects. - Conceptualizing and planning visual elements and design strategies. - Leading and managing creative teams to execute projects. - Reviewing and approving creative materials and designs. - Collaborating with clients and stakeholders to understand project goals. - Ensuring the overall visual coherence and branding consistency of projects. |
| Creative Director | - Providing creative vision and leadership for multiple projects and teams. - Overseeing the development and execution of creative concepts. - Setting and maintaining the creative standards for the organization. - Identifying industry trends and recommending innovative approaches. - Collaborating with marketing and production teams to align creative strategies with business objectives. - Evaluating and mentoring creative talent. |
| Advertising Copywriter | - Creating compelling and persuasive copy for advertisements and marketing campaigns. - Developing taglines, headlines, and product descriptions. - Collaborating with designers and art directors to ensure copy and visuals complement each other. - Understanding target audiences and tailoring messages to resonate with them. - Editing and proofreading copy for accuracy and consistency. |
| Branding Specialist | - Developing and implementing branding strategies for businesses and products. - Conducting market research and competitor analysis to inform brand positioning. - Creating brand guidelines and ensuring consistency across all brand assets. - Designing brand identities, logos, and marketing materials. - Collaborating with marketing and creative teams to align branding efforts with overall marketing objectives. |
| Marketing Coordinator | - Assisting in the planning and execution of marketing campaigns and events. - Coordinating with various teams to ensure marketing materials are produced on time. - Managing social media accounts and content posting. - Conducting market research and analyzing marketing data. - Supporting the marketing team in various administrative tasks and projects. |
| Event Coordinator | - Organizing and coordinating events, exhibitions, and promotional activities. - Liaising with vendors, sponsors, and stakeholders to secure resources. - Managing event logistics, including venue setup and attendee registration. - Creating event marketing materials and promotional content. - Ensuring events run smoothly and handle any on-site issues or emergencies. |
| Multimedia Artist | - Creating multimedia content, including images, animations, audio, and video. - Using various software and tools to produce multimedia projects. - Collaborating with designers and content creators to integrate multimedia elements. - Ensuring multimedia projects align with project objectives and brand guidelines. - Staying updated with multimedia trends and technologies. |
| Art Teacher/Instructor | - Providing art instruction and leading creative workshops. - Developing lesson plans and educational materials for art classes. - Guiding students in various artistic techniques and mediums. - Encouraging creativity and artistic expression among students. - Assessing student progress and providing constructive feedback. - Organizing and participating in art exhibitions or showcases. |
| Exhibition Curator | - Planning and organizing art exhibitions and gallery shows. - Selecting artwork and curating displays to convey a coherent artistic theme. - Collaborating with artists, galleries, and institutions for exhibition arrangements. - Overseeing the installation and presentation of artwork. - Engaging with visitors and providing information about the exhibits. - Managing exhibition budgets and administrative tasks. |
| Job Profile | General Job Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design or related field. - Proficiency in graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite). - Portfolio showcasing design projects and creativity. |
| Web Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Web Design, Interactive Media, or related field. - Proficiency in web design software and coding languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript). - Portfolio demonstrating web design projects and user interface (UI) expertise. |
| UX/UI Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Interaction Design, User Experience, or related field. - Proficiency in UX/UI design tools and techniques. - Strong understanding of user-centered design principles. - Portfolio showcasing UX/UI design projects and problem-solving skills. |
| Motion Graphic Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Animation, Motion Graphics, or related field. - Proficiency in motion graphics software (e.g., After Effects). - Portfolio demonstrating motion graphic projects and animation skills. |
| Video Editor | - Bachelor's degree in Film, Video Editing, or related field. - Proficiency in video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere). - Portfolio showcasing video editing projects and storytelling abilities. |
| Animator | - Bachelor's degree in Animation, Multimedia, or related field. - Proficiency in animation software (e.g., Maya, Blender). - Portfolio demonstrating animation projects and character design skills. |
| 3D Artist | - Bachelor's degree in 3D Design, Animation, or related field. - Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering software (e.g., 3ds Max, V-Ray). - Portfolio showcasing 3D models and visualizations. |
| Fashion Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field. - Creativity in fashion design and knowledge of fashion trends. - Portfolio demonstrating fashion design projects and garment sketches. |
| Textile Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Textile Design, Surface Design, or related field. - Creativity in pattern and print design for textiles. - Portfolio showcasing textile designs and colorways. |
| Interior Designer | - Bachelor's degree in Interior Design or related field. - Creativity in interior space planning and design. - Knowledge of building codes and regulations. - Portfolio demonstrating interior design projects and concept presentations. |
| Architectural Visualization | - Bachelor's degree in Architecture, 3D Visualization, or related field. - Proficiency in 3D architectural visualization software (e.g., SketchUp, Lumion). - Portfolio showcasing architectural visualizations and renderings. |
| Art Director | - Bachelor's degree in Design, Fine Arts, or related field. - Proven experience in creative direction and team management. - Strong conceptual and leadership skills. - Portfolio demonstrating art direction projects and successful campaigns. |
| Creative Director | - Bachelor's degree in Design, Fine Arts, or related field. - Extensive experience in creative direction and strategic planning. - Strong leadership and communication skills. - Portfolio showcasing successful creative campaigns and cross-platform projects. |
| Advertising Copywriter | - Bachelor's degree in Advertising, Copywriting, or related field. - Exceptional writing and storytelling skills. - Portfolio showcasing copywriting samples for various advertising materials. |
| Branding Specialist | - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Branding, or related field. - Knowledge of brand strategy and positioning. - Portfolio demonstrating branding projects and brand identity designs. |
| Marketing Coordinator | - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, or related field. - Organizational and multitasking skills for coordinating marketing projects. - Knowledge of marketing principles and strategies. - Portfolio showcasing marketing materials and campaign coordination. |
| Event Coordinator | - Bachelor's degree in Event Management, Hospitality, or related field. - Organizational skills for planning and executing events. - Portfolio demonstrating successful event coordination and management. |
| Multimedia Artist | - Bachelor's degree in Multimedia, Digital Arts, or related field. - Proficiency in multimedia software and tools. - Portfolio showcasing multimedia projects, including images, animations, and interactive content. |
| Art Teacher/Instructor | - Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts, Art Education, or related field. - Teaching experience and a passion for art education. - Knowledge of art techniques and art history. - Portfolio showcasing personal artwork and teaching materials (if applicable). |
| Exhibition Curator | - Bachelor's degree in Art History, Museum Studies, or related field. - Curatorial experience in organizing exhibitions and gallery shows. - Knowledge of art genres and art movements. - Portfolio demonstrating curatorial projects and exhibition concepts. |
Entry-Level Positions: Some entry-level positions in the creative art and design industry may be open to fresh graduates or individuals with little to no professional experience. These roles are often designed for candidates who possess creative skills and are willing to learn and grow within the industry.
Junior/Associate Positions: Many companies in the creative industry offer junior or associate roles that require a few years of relevant experience. Typically, 1 to 3 years of experience may be required for these positions.
Experienced Positions: Mid-level and senior positions in creative art and design often require candidates to have a more substantial amount of experience. This could range from 3 to 5 years or more, depending on the complexity of the role and the level of responsibility.
Specialized Roles: Certain roles within the creative industry, such as creative director, art director, or senior designer, may require extensive experience and a proven track record of successful projects. These roles often necessitate 5 or more years of relevant experience.
Industry-Specific Experience: For some positions in niche areas of creative art and design, such as architectural visualization, game design, or animation, employers may seek candidates with experience in those specific fields.
Portfolio or Past Work: Regardless of the level of experience required, having a strong portfolio showcasing past work and creative projects is essential for applicants in the creative industry. A well-curated portfolio can often compensate for a lack of formal experience, especially for roles that emphasize creativity and visual abilities.
Multidisciplinary Experience: Many creative professionals benefit from having experience in multiple areas of art and design. For example, a graphic designer with web design experience or an animator with video editing skills can be highly valued in the industry.
Leo Burnett Malaysia: A renowned advertising agency with a global presence, offering opportunities in advertising, brand strategy, and creative design.
Ogilvy Malaysia: Another top advertising agency known for its creative campaigns and branding services, with a history of hiring international talents.
TBWA Malaysia: An innovative advertising and communications agency that values creative thinkers from diverse backgrounds.
Saatchi & Saatchi Malaysia: A creative agency known for its unique and impactful advertising campaigns, offering opportunities in art direction and copywriting.
Dentsu Malaysia: A global marketing and communications company that welcomes international talents to contribute to their creative projects.
Dreamworks Animation Malaysia: For those interested in the animation industry, Dreamworks Animation's Malaysia studio may offer opportunities for international animators and artists.
Walt Disney Animation Studios Malaysia: Another prominent animation studio with a presence in Malaysia, offering roles in animation and visual effects.
Animasia Studio: An animation studio known for producing popular animated series and offering opportunities for animators and creative professionals.
Mindvalley: A prominent personal development company that often seeks creative talents for graphic design, web design, and multimedia roles.
Media Prima Berhad: A leading media company in Malaysia that owns television channels, radio stations, and publishing platforms, offering various creative opportunities.
Carat Malaysia: A global media and advertising agency that hires creative professionals in advertising and digital marketing roles.
Isobar Malaysia: A digital agency with a focus on design, user experience, and interactive media.
Leo Burnett/Publicis Groupe: A creative communications agency with a global network, offering opportunities for creative professionals in various fields.
BBDO Malaysia: An advertising agency known for its creative campaigns and branding services.
TBWA\Kuala Lumpur: Part of the TBWA global network, this agency seeks creative talents for its advertising and communication projects.
Grey Malaysia: An advertising and marketing agency with a reputation for creative excellence.
Havas Malaysia: A global advertising and communications agency with diverse creative opportunities.
Wunderman Thompson Malaysia: A creative agency specializing in advertising and marketing solutions.
Cheil Malaysia: A marketing and communications agency offering various creative roles.
Geometry Malaysia: A creative agency focusing on brand experience and activation.
Visual Layout: Consider using a clean and visually appealing layout that reflects your creativity and design skills. Use a consistent color scheme and typography to maintain a professional look.
Personal Information: Include your full name, contact information (email address and phone number), and professional social media profiles (such as LinkedIn or Behance) if applicable.
Profile Summary: Begin your CV with a brief profile summary that highlights your key skills, areas of expertise, and career aspirations. Keep it concise and compelling.
Portfolio Link: Since the creative industry heavily relies on portfolios, provide a link to your online portfolio or personal website showcasing your best work. Ensure that the link is easily accessible and well-organized.
Education: List your educational qualifications, including the degree earned, the name of the institution, and the graduation year.
Work Experience: Include your work experience in reverse chronological order. Describe your roles and responsibilities in each position, emphasizing achievements and projects that demonstrate your creative abilities.
Skills: Create a separate section to list your relevant skills, such as design software proficiency (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite), artistic techniques, and any other unique abilities.
Achievements and Awards: If you have received any accolades, awards, or recognition for your work, be sure to mention them in a dedicated section.
Relevant Courses or Certifications: If you have completed any relevant courses or obtained certifications related to art and design, include them in a designated section.
Volunteer or Freelance Work: If you have engaged in creative projects outside of traditional employment, highlight any volunteer work, freelance gigs, or personal projects that showcase your skills and passion for art and design.
Languages: Mention your proficiency in languages, especially if you are fluent in languages commonly used in Malaysia, such as English, Malay, or Chinese.
References: You can choose to include references or indicate that they will be provided upon request. However, it's often not necessary to include this information on the CV.
File Format: Save your CV or resume in a PDF format to ensure that the formatting remains consistent and intact when viewed by potential employers.
File Size: Keep the file size reasonable to ensure easy sharing and fast upload/download times.
Review and Proofread: Before submitting your CV, carefully review and proofread the content to eliminate any errors or inconsistencies.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Before applying for creative art and design jobs, ensure you have a well-curated portfolio showcasing your best work. Include a diverse range of projects that highlight your skills and creativity. You can create an online portfolio or a personal website for easy sharing with potential employers.
Update Your CV/Resume: Craft a visually appealing CV or resume that reflects your creativity and design skills. Tailor your CV to each job application, emphasizing relevant experiences and achievements. Save it in PDF format to maintain formatting integrity.
Research Job Opportunities: Use online job portals, company websites, and professional networks to search for creative art and design job openings in Malaysia. Be specific in your search by using relevant keywords and location filters.
Review Job Descriptions: Thoroughly read the job descriptions of positions you're interested in to understand the requirements and responsibilities. Ensure your skills align with what the employer is seeking.
Customize Your Application: Customize your application for each job you apply to. Address the employer's needs and use their language to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Write a Cover Letter: Craft a compelling cover letter that introduces yourself, explains your interest in the position, and highlights why you're the ideal candidate. Personalize the cover letter for each application.
Submit Your Application: Follow the application instructions provided by the employer. Submit your CV, cover letter, and portfolio as required. Some companies may request additional documents, so ensure you include all necessary materials.
Follow Up: If you don't hear back within a reasonable timeframe, consider following up on your application. A polite email or phone call expressing your continued interest can make a positive impression.
Network and Attend Events: Engage in networking activities, attend creative events, workshops, and seminars to connect with industry professionals. Networking can lead to job opportunities and valuable connections.
Prepare for Interviews: If your application is successful, prepare for interviews by researching the company, understanding their projects and values, and practicing your responses to common interview questions.
Be Professional and Positive: During interviews, showcase your enthusiasm, passion, and a positive attitude. Demonstrate how your creative skills and experience can add value to the company.
Follow Up After Interviews: After interviews, send a thank-you email to the interviewers to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position.
Consider Freelancing: If you're open to freelance work, explore freelancing platforms and creative communities where you can find freelance opportunities in Malaysia.
Stay Persistent and Patient: The job search process may take time, so stay persistent and patient. Continue honing your skills and expanding your portfolio while actively seeking new job opportunities.
