2026 randstad workmonitor.

managing rising economic pressures.

52% of Malaysian talent are planning to, or have already taken on a second job to cope with rising economic pressures.
AI embedded in the workforce.

54% believe that AI will benefit companies more than workers, signalling a gap in expectations.
managers as key to stability.

79% of talent report a strong relationship with their manager, reinforcing the role of managers as key anchors of trust in the workplace.
shifting towards portfolio careers.

44% of talent agree that they don’t want a linear career, but instead want to experience different types of jobs in different sectors.

me and the world: from job displacement to task augmentation.

Amidst rising costs and economic uncertainty, talent are focused on financial resilience and securing their future employability.

As AI transitions from an experimental phase to a core business tool, the narrative for talent is also shifting from job displacement to task augmentation. To maintain a motivated workforce, employers must provide transparent roadmaps that empower employees to adapt and thrive in this new landscape.
me and my team: managers are key to stability.

Managers have emerged as essential anchors, serving as the primary bridge of trust between employees and the organisation.

By strengthening their relationship with employees and fostering multigenerational synergy, employers can bridge the confidence gap and build the long-term loyalty needed for success.
me: the rise of self-defined success.

In a volatile economy, employees are redefining success by prioritising work-life balance and flexibility over traditional job security.

As linear career paths give way to self-directed "portfolio careers," organisations must move beyond rigid structures to offer the autonomy and diverse growth pathways that today’s talent want.

our global reach.

key findings at a glance.

Our 2026 Workmonitor report reveals that success now depends on bridging human expertise with AI, strengthening collaboration and trust, and embracing non-linear career paths. For employers, understanding these shifts is vital to aligning business growth with evolving talent expectations.

The objective is clear: by closing the "confidence gap" between leadership and employees, organisations can build a resilient workplace where everyone thrives.

Discover how Randstad can help your business attract and retain top talent for Malaysia’s landscape. Download the report today.