By Ts. Dr. Hj. Muhammad Khusairy Bin Capt. Hj. Bakri

Returning to Malaysia after three years abroad, the changes are striking. The vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur are now dotted with the homeless, a stark indicator of the growing economic disparities. The rising cost of living, driven by inflation and stagnant wages, paints a bleak picture. This scenario is pushing more Malaysians to seek opportunities overseas, a trend that is detrimental to the nation's long-term development.

Malaysia's inflation rate has been on an upward trajectory, making everyday life increasingly unaffordable for many. Essentials such as food, housing, and healthcare have seen significant price hikes. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 3.3% in 2023 compared to the previous year. The cost of housing has surged by 4.1%, and food prices have climbed by 3.7%. These numbers are more than just statistics; they reflect the daily struggles of ordinary Malaysians.

The increase in the homeless population in Kuala Lumpur is a visible symptom of deeper economic issues. The lack of affordable housing, coupled with inadequate social support systems, has forced many onto the streets. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and volunteer groups are overwhelmed, struggling to provide necessities to those in need. This situation calls for urgent government intervention and policy reform.

One of the most pressing issues Malaysia faces is the brain drain. Talented individuals, frustrated by low salaries and lack of opportunities, are leaving the country in search of better prospects. According to the World Bank, Malaysia's brain drain is among the highest in the region, with over 1.5 million Malaysians living abroad as of 2023. This exodus of skilled workers is a significant loss to the nation's intellectual and economic capital.

A major factor contributing to the brain drain is the lack of recognition and appreciation for local talent. In many cases, recognition awards and accolades are given based on connections and titles rather than merit. This practice not only demoralizes deserving individuals but also undermines the country's progress. Talented Malaysians, who have the potential to drive innovation and development, are often overlooked in favor of those with influential backgrounds.

To curb the brain drain, it is imperative to adopt a merit-based recognition system. Awards and honors should be given to individuals based on their contributions and achievements, regardless of their background or title. This shift would not only motivate talented individuals to stay but also foster a culture of excellence and fairness.

The Malaysian government must play a crucial role in reversing the brain drain. This involves creating a conducive environment for talent to thrive, which includes offering competitive salaries, ensuring job security, and providing opportunities for professional growth. Additionally, the government should focus on strengthening the circular economy, which would create more jobs and reduce unemployment.

The government often appeals to nationalism, urging Malaysians abroad to return and contribute to the country's development. However, this call should be accompanied by fair compensation. Expecting talented individuals to work for free or for low wages is not sustainable. Instead, the government should ensure that returning professionals are adequately compensated for their skills and contributions.

As we delve into these issues, it is essential to question the audience: Are we doing enough to recognize and retain our local talent? How can we ensure that deserving individuals receive the recognition they deserve? What steps can we take to create a more inclusive and merit-based system?

Numerous studies and reports highlight the severity of Malaysia's brain drain. The Khazanah Research Institute's 2022 report shows that the country's talent outflow has reached alarming levels, with a significant number of professionals migrating to Singapore, Australia, and the United States. The report also notes that a large percentage of these individuals cite better career opportunities and higher salaries as primary reasons for leaving.

The loss of skilled professionals has far-reaching consequences. It hampers the country's ability to innovate, reduces the quality of services, and limits economic growth. For instance, the healthcare sector is particularly affected, with a shortage of doctors and nurses due to many migrating for better opportunities. Similarly, the tech industry struggles to keep up with global advancements due to the lack of skilled engineers and IT professionals.

Implementing a merit-based recognition system is justified on multiple fronts. Firstly, it ensures that the best talents are identified and nurtured, leading to greater innovation and productivity. Secondly, it promotes fairness and equality, essential components of a progressive society. Lastly, it enhances Malaysia's reputation as a country that values and rewards hard work and excellence.

While the government has introduced several initiatives to address brain drain, such as the Returning Expert Programme (REP) and the TalentCorp initiative, these efforts need to be more comprehensive and effective. The REP, for instance, offers tax incentives and allowances to Malaysians abroad who return to work in the country. However, these measures alone are not sufficient. There must be a holistic approach that includes improving the overall economic environment, ensuring job security, and providing opportunities for career advancement.

The private sector also has a crucial role to play in addressing brain drain. Companies should adopt fair and transparent hiring practices, offer competitive salaries, and provide opportunities for professional development. Collaboration between the government and private sector can lead to the creation of a robust ecosystem that supports and nurtures talent.

Highlighting success stories and case studies of Malaysians who have returned and made significant contributions can serve as an inspiration to others. For instance, Dr. Chan, a renowned scientist who returned from the United States, has been instrumental in developing new technologies in Malaysia. Such examples demonstrate the potential impact of recognizing and supporting local talent.

Addressing the brain drain in Malaysia requires a multifaceted approach that includes recognizing and rewarding talent based on merit, creating a conducive environment for professionals to thrive, and ensuring fair compensation. The government, private sector, and society as a whole must work together to create a system that values and nurtures local talent. By doing so, Malaysia can stem the tide of brain drain and build a brighter future for all its citizens.

It is time for Malaysia to take bold steps towards recognizing and retaining its talent. Let us create a system where merit is the primary criterion for recognition, where talented individuals feel valued and appreciated, and where the country's best minds can contribute to its development. Together, we can build a nation that not only celebrates excellence but also harnesses it for the greater good.

The author is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Composite Materials and Engineering Center, Washington State University