Singapore, on the other hand, logs decrease in HR hiring
The Philippines and Malaysia reported robust growth in hiring activity in the past year, with gains also recorded in their HR and Administration roles, according to a new report.
The latest foundit Insights Tracker (fit) report showed the Philippines recording a 47% growth in hiring activity in 2024, driven by the expansion of retail, outsourcing, and infrastructure sectors, "Companies prioritised scaling their HR functions to manage workforce growth, streamline operations, and enhance employee engagement," foundit said in a media release.
HR roles in Malaysia also increased by 28%, according to the report, while Singapore saw a 12% decline in hiring activity for HR and Administration positions.
"[This is] most likely due to organisations in the country shifting towards automation and outsourcing of administrative functions to optimise costs," the release noted.
The growth recorded in the Philippines and Malaysia is part of the bigger positive shift in hiring activity in both countries, according to the report.
The Philippines recorded a robust 20% year-on-year growth in hiring, fuelled by the expansion of its retail, logistics, and Business Process Outsourcing sectors:
Malaysia also reported a 10% YoY rise in overall hiring activities, with major changes reported in the following sectors:
"The evolving employment landscape across Southeast Asia is shaped by key factors such as digital adoption, workplace dynamics, and shifting compensation strategies," said V Suresh, CEO of foundit, in a statement.
"Malaysia has leveraged its digital momentum, particularly in retail and hospitality, to drive substantial hiring growth. Similarly, the Philippines has capitalised on consumer demand to expand its retail sector."
Meanwhile, Singapore recorded an 11% YoY drop in hiring activities in the past year, with varying levels of decline in the following sectors:
Suresh attributed the decline in Singapore's hiring activity to technology and efficiency "redefining industry roles."
According to the report, the hiring activity decline in Singapore's hospitality sector was due to "limited promotional activities, tighter visa norms, and technological shifts, such as jobs being outsourced to AI and automation."
"Overall, businesses that strike a balance between technology-driven strategies and employee well-being will be best positioned to navigate these shifts and sustain long-term growth," Suresh said.
