Key Trends in Southeast Asia’s Labour Market for 2025: Insights from MVC Resources

 

 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 28th, February 2025 .

The job market in Southeast Asia is evolving rapidly, driven by digitalisation, shifting workforce expectations, and industry demand. MVC Resources, a regional player in recruitment solutions and HR services, provides an in-depth analysis of key employment trends shaping 2025. Through extensive market research, data analysis, and industry insights, MVC Resources actively tracks employment trends and emerging developments. This enables businesses to make informed hiring decisions and helps job seekers stay competitive in an evolving job market. By leveraging market research, industry data, and talent analytics, MVC Resources helps organisations refine their hiring strategies to match evolving workforce demands. This strategic approach ensures businesses attract the right talent for long-term growth while empowering professionals with career opportunities aligned to industry needs.

The Rise of Digital Recruitment

The digital transformation of the recruitment industry is accelerating, with Malaysia witnessing a 16% year-on-year (YoY) increase in e-recruitment activity (HCAMag). This growth highlights the increasing reliance on digital hiring tools as companies strive to improve efficiency, streamline candidate selection, and secure top talent in a competitive job market.

Across Southeast Asia, businesses are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and automation to revolutionise the hiring process. Platforms like Kalibrr in the Philippines and Job3s.vn in Vietnam are leading the way in AI-powered recruitment. Kalibrr has facilitated employer-candidate matching for over a decade, processing over 10 million job applications annually. Meanwhile, Job3s.vn’s AI-driven technology connects candidates with employers and was recently recognised with the Sao Khue Award 2024 in the A-IoT category for its innovation in recruitment.

Several companies in Southeast Asia are actively integrating AI-powered solutions into their recruitment strategies, some include:

- Impress (Singapore): Offers an AI-powered chatbot that conducts candidate interviews, streamlines data collection, and integrates seamlessly with existing applicant tracking systems (ATS).

- JobHopin (Vietnam): Utilises AI and machine learning to match candidates with suitable job openings, enhancing hiring efficiency.

- Snaphunt (Singapore): Provides an AI-driven platform for sourcing, interviewing, and analytics, ensuring better candidate-role matching.

- Kalibrr (Philippines & Indonesia): Incorporates AI-driven assessments and an ATS to connect employers with potential candidates, improving hiring decisions.

These cutting-edge technologies not only accelerate hiring and enhance candidate-role matching but also enable companies to anticipate future talent needs.

AI’s Role in Workforce Planning and Talent Development

Beyond recruitment, AI is playing a crucial role in workforce planning and employee development. By analysing data and predictive workforce modelling, organisations can proactively address skill shortages and optimise long-term recruitment strategies.

For instance, AI-powered platforms can evaluate individual learning styles and performance data, providing personalised training programs that enhance employee engagement and skill development. By adopting these advanced technologies, companies in Southeast Asia can future-proof their hiring strategies, secure high-quality talent, and drive sustainable business growth.

As AI continues to reshape the recruitment industry, businesses that embrace these innovations will have a competitive advantage in securing the best talent in an increasingly dynamic job market.

Industry Growth and Hiring Demand

While industries such as hospitality, retail, and logistics have experienced notable job growth, some sectors are facing stagnation or decline:

Industries Experiencing Decline:

Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector in Southeast Asia has seen a reduction in job openings, with a decrease of 13,000 positions reported in recent data . This decline is largely attributed to supply chain disruptions, rising operational costs, and a slowdown in global demand for exports, particularly in electronics and automotive production. Additionally, economic uncertainties and shifting trade policies have contributed to reduced investments in the sector (Vietnam Manufacturing Tracker: 2024-25).

Retail Trade: Employment in southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia retail trade sector has shown little net change over the past year, indicating stagnation in job growth (Reuters).  This stagnation is driven by inflationary pressures affecting consumer spending, the continued rise of e-commerce reducing the need for traditional retail staffing, and corporate cost-cutting measures in response to economic uncertainties Financial Times.

Unchanged Sectors:

Utilities and Mining: These sectors have maintained steady employment levels, with minimal fluctuations reported in recent months. This stability can be attributed to consistent demand for energy and raw materials, long-term contracts in the energy industry, and the gradual transition towards sustainable energy sources, which has kept job losses at bay despite shifts in energy policy.

Further Analysis and Implications:

The contrast of growing and declining industries underscores the dynamic nature of the current job market. For employers and job seekers, this landscape presents both challenges and opportunities:

For Employers: Businesses in expanding sectors should focus on strategic talent acquisition to meet increasing demand. This involves investing in training programs, reskilling employees, and implementing retention strategies.

For Job Seekers: Individuals should stay informed about industry trends and consider opportunities in growing sectors like healthcare and digital technology. Acquiring versatile skills can enhance employability, particularly in a fluctuating job market.

Understanding these trends enables both employers and job seekers to make informed decisions, fostering resilience and adaptability in an evolving economic environment.

The Growing Importance of Soft Skills

Research highlights soft skills as a key factor influencing hiring trends. Employers now prioritise professionals with strong communication, adaptability, critical thinking, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving abilities alongside technical expertise.

Studies reveal that 75% of long-term job success depends on soft skills, while only 25% relies on technical skills (Stanford Research Institute & Carnegie Mellon Foundation). This shift aligns with the modern workplace, where automation and AI handle technical tasks, making human-centric skills even more valuable.

For businesses, this means investing in employee training beyond technical upskilling to include leadership development, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence. For job seekers, enhancing soft skills can improve employability and career growth, especially in industries where client interaction and innovation drive success.

The Shift Towards Hybrid and Remote Work

Workplace flexibility remains a priority for job seekers, with over 60% of Malaysian professionals preferring hybrid work models (ACN Newswire). This shift is prompting companies to rethink work policies and invest in digital collaboration tools.

Implications for Employers:

- Offer Flexible Work Arrangements: Implement hybrid models to support work-life balance.

- Enhance Supportive Benefits: Provide mental health support, family planning assistance, and pet-related leave.

- Foster an Inclusive Culture: Cultivate a workplace that values flexibility, inclusivity, and employee input.

Companies that fail to offer flexible work options risk losing top talent to more accommodating competitors.

Navigating Malaysia’s Evolving Job Market

Malaysia’s labour market is transforming rapidly. Businesses must move beyond traditional hiring metrics and focus on speed, efficiency, and strategic talent acquisition. With top candidates receiving multiple offers in a short time frame, employers who prolong their hiring process risk losing high-calibre talent to more agile competitors. To stay ahead, companies must streamline recruitment processes, leverage AI-driven hiring tools, and adopt a proactive approach to securing top professionals before they are snapped up by rivals.

In a competitive HR Services landscape, MVC Resources  is dedicated to helping organisations secure top talent through consultative recruitment strategies, market insights, and employer brand representation. We ensure that businesses not only attract but also retain the right talent. Our expertise in employer brand representation strengthens companies' positioning in the job market, making them the employer of choice amidst fierce competition. With a hands-on, tailored recruitment strategy, MVC Resources empowers businesses to navigate hiring challenges and build high-performing teams.

For professionals seeking career advancement or organisations in need of expert recruitment support, visit Our Services Provided to explore available opportunities and tailored hiring solutions. For further insights and recruitment consultations, feel free to contact us.

About MVC Resources

Established in Malaysia, MVC Resources is a boutique HR consulting firm specialising in bridging talent and skills gaps for executives and organisations. With a commitment to excellence, MVC Resources offers tailored recruitment strategies, executive search, and workforce solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients. Through a data-driven and people-centric approach, the company ensures efficient talent acquisition, fostering long-term success for both employers and job seekers.

Karaoke Manekineko’s RM6 Ramadan Promotion – March 2 to March 30, 2025!

  

In celebration of Ramadan, Karaoke Manekineko is offering an exciting and affordable promotion to make your gatherings more memorable. From March 2 to March 30, 2025, customers can enjoy 1-hour karaoke sessions for just RM6 per person, available Monday to Sunday before 7 PM. This special pricing is open to everyone, making it the perfect opportunity to unwind and share joyful moments with friends and family during the festive season.

For a more complete experience, guests can add free-flow drinks and tidbits for just RM3 per person. This optional add-on allows you to enjoy unlimited refreshments while singing your favorite songs. Whether you're planning a casual hangout during the day or looking for a fun activity before Buka Puasa, this promotion offers great value and a fun-filled experience. Enjoy affordable karaoke sessions with friends and family while taking advantage of this special daytime offer.

After 7 PM, regular pricing will apply for all customers. This flexible promotion lets you enjoy affordable daytime entertainment while still experiencing Karaoke Manekineko’s premium karaoke sessions in the evening.

Promotion Details:

- 1-hour karaoke session: RM6 per person (Monday to Sunday, before 7 PM)

- Add-on: RM3 per person for free-flow drinks and tidbits

- Regular pricing resumes after 7 PM

- Promotion period: March 2 to March 30, 2025

- Available at all Karaoke Manekineko outlets

Terms & Conditions:

- Prices are exclusive of 8% SST and 10% service charges.

- The RM6 rate applies only before 7 PM.

Celebrate Ramadan with the joy of music at Karaoke Manekineko—a place where everyone can sing, relax, and make lasting memories!

About Koshidaka International KL Sdn Bhd

Koshidaka International was incorporated in 2021 at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as a full subsidiary of Koshidaka Holdings. The company serves as a management consultancy arm for the Karaoke Manekineko operations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Karaoke Manekineko is a friendly and safe environment for Karaoke that is designed to accommodate a diverse range of customers, from families with young children to groups of friends and corporate teams.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Tiggi Hawke: Charting a Course Through Electro-Pop with Authenticity and Vision

As a London-based singer-songwriter, Tiggi has carved a unique space for herself in the industry, demonstrating a commitment to authenticity and a willingness to explore the complexities of human emotion through her music. 

Check out Tiggi on Facebook 

Tiggi's journey into music began as a therapeutic outlet during her school years. Faced with personal challenges, she turned to writing poems and lyrics as a means of coping and self-expression. What started as a private exercise soon blossomed into a passion for songwriting, and Tiggi discovered the profound power of music to connect with others on a deeply emotional level.

Encouraged by industry insiders who recognized her talent, Tiggi began to explore the possibility of pursuing music as a career. This marked a pivotal moment in her life, as she transitioned from singing other people's songs to crafting her own, a process that she describes as liberating and empowering.

Tiggi's songwriting process is a delicate dance between structure and spontaneity. She typically begins with a concept or lyrical hook that serves as a guiding light for the song's direction. From there, she experiments with beats and melodies, allowing the music to shape the narrative and evoke the desired emotions.

Collaboration is also a key element of Tiggi's creative process. She thrives on the diverse perspectives and ideas that come from working with other musicians and producers, believing that these collaborations add layers of depth and richness to her songs. By embracing collaboration, Tiggi ensures that her music remains fresh, innovative, and reflective of a wide range of influences.

Tiggi's album, "Ascension," released in 2023, is a testament to her growth as both an individual and an artist. The album is a deeply personal journey that mirrors her experiences over the past two years, showcasing her evolution and resilience in the face of adversity. The track order of "Ascension" is carefully curated to reflect a progression from darker, more introspective themes to a more hopeful and uplifting outlook. The lead track, "SATURDAY NIGHT," encapsulates the album's central message: the importance of choosing happiness, even if just for a fleeting moment, and pushing aside the weight of sadness that can often consume us.

Tiggi's affinity for the electro-pop genre stems from its sonic textures, synthesizers, and infectious beats. She views electro-pop as the ideal canvas for her creativity, allowing her to weave her unique stories and emotions into a sound that is both contemporary and timeless. The aesthetic appeal of electro-pop aligns seamlessly with her vision, enabling her to create music that is both thought-provoking and danceable.

In addition to her personal experiences, Tiggi draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including astronomy and future technology. These interests find their way into her music, shaping her visual identity and enhancing the thematic depth of her creations. By incorporating these elements into her work, Tiggi elevates her music beyond mere entertainment, transforming it into a powerful form of artistic expression.

The release of "Ascension" marks a significant milestone in Tiggi's career, solidifying her position as a rising star in the electro-pop world. The album represents the culmination of two years of dedication and collaboration, and it holds a special place in her heart as a testament to her growth and resilience.

Looking ahead, Tiggi's ultimate goal as an artist is to connect with her audience on a visceral level. She longs to share her music with live audiences, to feel their energy, and to create a shared experience that transcends the boundaries of language and culture. She aspires to embark on world tours, spreading her music to new corners of the globe while also recognizing the importance of digital platforms for connecting with fans.

Tiggi envisions a future in which she continues to create music that resonates deeply with her listeners. She hopes to embark on more tours, both as a solo artist and in collaboration with other musicians, and she dreams of contributing to the music world for years to come. Tiggi's story is one of passion, growth, and an unwavering commitment to creating music that speaks to the hearts of her listeners. With her talent, dedication, and unique vision, Tiggi Hawke is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of electro-pop and beyond.

Philippine Fans, Get Ready! Tiggi Hawke visited the Philippines this February and will be joining an exciting music festival in September! Details are still under wraps, but fans can anticipate an electrifying performance that will showcase her signature sound and captivating stage presence.

While awaiting further announcements, immerse yourselves in Tiggi's world by streaming her music. Stream Tiggi Hawke’s music on Spotify.

ABOUT TIGGI HAWKE

Tiggi Hawke exists somewhere between the terrestrial and the transcendental. Her music is a doorway, her lyrics the key. Based in London but seemingly touched by the mysteries of the unknown, she has enchanted listeners across the globe, racking up millions streams like grains of sand in an hourglass and nods from tastemakers at Radio 1, KISS, and Spotify. With this release, she invites you into her next evolution—a place where sound is alive, visuals are visions, and nothing is ever as it seems.

For the latest updates, music, and behind-the-scenes content, be sure to follow Tiggi Hawke on her social media accounts -: IG: @tiggihawke, FB: Tiggi Hawke, X:  @TiggiHawke & Tiktok: notiggitynodoubt

You can also find Tiggi Hawke’s music on all major streaming platforms. Stay tuned for more exciting news and releases from this dynamic and innovative artist.

This story also came out on https://thenewchannel.com/highlights/.  💬 READ NEW STORIES thru http://www.TheNewChannel.com

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Indonesia’s Facial Cleanser Market Soars with 212.35% YoY Growth in Q4 2024

Indonesia’s facial cleanser market saw remarkable growth in Q4 2024, reaching $78.4 million in GMV—a 212.35% increase from the previous year—driven by strong demand from Gen Z consumers. Shopee dominated online sales with an 89.36% market share, while Skintific led the category with 16.5% market share, followed by Wardah and Cetaphil. Notably, new entrant Scora gained traction with its budget-friendly cleanser, signaling a shift in consumer preferences. As competition intensifies, brands are leveraging innovation and strategic positioning to capture the growing market.

Jakarta, February 28, 2024 – Indonesia’s skincare market continues its upward trajectory, with the facial cleanser segment experiencing remarkable growth. According to Statista, the skincare market in Indonesia is projected to generate approximately $2.94 billion in revenue in 2024, with an expected annual growth rate of 4.54% from 2024 to 2030. Within this booming market, facial cleansers have emerged as a key category, driven by increasing consumer awareness, a focus on targeted skincare benefits, and the substantial influence of Gen Z consumers.

Facial Cleansers Market Overview

Magpie data reveals that in Q4 2024, facial cleansers accounted for 14% of the beauty category group in Indonesia’s e-commerce market, ranking third after moisturizers and serums & essences. During this period, the facial cleanser market size reached $78.4 million, marking a staggering 212.35% increase from Q4 2023, with 24 million units sold, reflecting a 163.74% year-on-year growth. Additionally, the category demonstrated strong quarter-over-quarter (QoQ) performance, with Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) rising by 125.29% compared to Q3 2024, highlighting its impressive momentum.

E-commerce Market Share and Competitive Landscape

Shopee maintained its dominant position in the online facial cleanser market, securing an 89.36% market share, followed by Lazada (5.89%), Tokopedia (4.41%), and Blibli (0.33%). Shopee’s market dominance remained steady throughout the quarter, while both Lazada and Tokopedia faced challenges in maintaining their positions, and Blibli exhibited minimal movement.

Leading Brands in the Facial Cleanser Market

The top five brands contributed 37.91% of the total market, with Skintific leading at 16.5%, followed by Wardah (8.5%), Cetaphil (4.6%), Skin1004 (4.5%), and Somethinc (3.7%).

While Skintific retained its lead, its market share peaked at 21% in October before stabilizing at 17.7% in December. Meanwhile, Wardah demonstrated steady growth, reaching 8.7% by December, and Cetaphil and Skin1004 remained competitive, ending the quarter at 5.8% and 4.4%, respectively. Somethinc also saw significant growth, rising from 1.4% in October to 4.4% by December.

Performance by E-commerce Platform

Shopee

Skintific dominated Shopee’s facial cleanser category with an 18.19% market share, generating $12.8 million in revenue. Wardah followed at 8.02%, while Skin1004 (5.02%), Cetaphil (4.36%), and Somethinc (4.05%) rounded out the top brands.

Lazada

Glow & Lovely emerged as the top brand, capturing a 15.95% market share and generating $737.3K in revenue. Other key brands included Pond’s (7.83%), Wardah (7.41%), Garnier (5.56%), and Glad2Glow (5.3%).

Tokopedia

Wardah led with a 21.87% market share, generating $757.2K in revenue, followed by Kahf (16%), Cetaphil (9.42%), Garnier (5.09%), and Emina (3.53%).

Blibli

Cetaphil dominated Blibli’s facial cleanser segment with a 52.79% market share, generating $138K in revenue, outperforming Pond’s (29.94%), Sebamed (3.66%), Skintific (1.66%), and Y.O.U (1.65%).

Top-Selling Products and Emerging Players

The best-selling facial cleansers in Q4 2024 were:

1. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser 500ml, generating $512.4K in revenue with 39.3K units sold, reinforcing its dominance in the premium skincare segment.

2. Skintific Gentle Gel Cleanser 120ml, generating $406K in revenue with 65.4K units sold, maintaining strong consumer preference.

3. Scora Salicylic Acid Low pH Cleanser 100ml, an emerging contender, achieving $359.5K in revenue with 145.6K units sold, indicating a rising demand for budget-friendly yet effective cleansers.

Looking Ahead

The facial cleanser market in Indonesia continues to exhibit strong growth, with established brands strengthening their positions and new players like Scora making significant inroads. As consumer interest in skincare remains high, brands are expected to innovate and optimize their digital strategies to stay competitive in this rapidly expanding market.

Picture by: rawpixel.com on freepik

About Magpie Ecommerce Intelligence

Magpie helps businesses discover the market potential in e-commerce, compare performance against competitors, and provide detailed market share breakdowns by sellers, location, and specific segments. With data and insights from Magpie, your business can make better decisions for the future.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES 

Unveil the Allure of Mâcon Wines: Savor the Elegance of Southern Bourgogne

14 wineries from the Mâcon region visited Singapore and held a successful wine tasting event at Raffles Hotel. 

Located in the southern part of France's Bourgogne region, Mâcon is an AOC region known for its exceptional natural conditions. The region's soil, made up of limestone and clay, combined with a warm climate, allows the grapes to reach their ideal maturity, producing high-quality Bourgogne wines with a full-bodied structure and subtle mineral notes. Mâcon wines not only represent 16% of Bourgogne's total production with an annual yield of 30 million bottles but also making it a key wine-producing area in Bourgogne. Moreover, the consistent supply and high quality of Mâcon wines have made them widely available in global markets, catering to a variety of tastes. The region is divided into 27 appellations, each with its own distinct terroir, which contributes to the wines' diverse flavors and complexity. These factors combine to create the signature roundness and fresh fruit aromas of Mâcon wines, which, thanks to their excellent value, remain highly sought after on the international market.

On February 18th, 14 wineries from the Mâcon region visited Singapore and held a wine tasting event at Raffles Hotel. Nearly 140 industry professionals attended the event, where they had the opportunity to taste a selection of white and red wines from Mâcon. The tasting provided participants with a deeper understanding of the region's unique terroir and wine styles. Attendees experienced a wide range of wines, from the fresh, fruit-forward Chardonnay to the light, easy-drinking Gamay reds, gaining a greater appreciation for wines from southern Bourgogne.

From Fresh to Oak-Aged: Exploring the Versatility of Chardonnay

Mâcon is renowned for its exceptional Chardonnay white wines, all crafted from the Chardonnay grape, which accounts for more than 90% of the region's vineyards.

These wines are known for their pale gold to straw gold hues, often with silvery or green highlights. On the nose, Mâcon Chardonnays reveal a complex bouquet of floral aromas, such as broom, white rose, acacia, and honeysuckle, alongside herbal notes of fern, verbena, and lemongrass, complemented by citrus hints of grapefruit and mandarin.

Subtle undertones of pine, quince, and fennel may emerge in the finish. On the palate, the wines display a remarkable range of expressions depending on the terroir, offering fresh, dry, yet fruity profiles with a pleasing roundness, smooth texture, and balanced acidity—qualities that not only enhance their aging potential but also make them highly versatile for food pairings.

Delicate and Refined: Discovering the Allure of Gamay

Unique from other Bourgogne regions, where Pinot Noir predominates in red wine production, Mâcon distinguishes itself by focusing on the Gamay grape. Mâcon’s Gamay wines are known for their fresh, lively flavors, with prominent notes of raspberry and cherry, complemented by hints of spice. Thanks to Gamay’s early ripening characteristics, these red wines are light-bodied, with refreshing acidity and a smooth, rounded texture that makes them highly approachable. The fresh fruit flavors and smooth structure make these wines ideal for drinking young and offer an easy, enjoyable experience. With their vibrant fruitiness and crisp acidity, Mâcon Gamay wines are considered an excellent choice for those new to red wines, providing a rich and accessible tasting experience.

Discover more about Mâcon wines: https://www.vins-macon.com/

Learn about the terroir of the Mâcon region: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GF20y1aBZh8

27 reasons to love Mâcon wines: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fqJ0i_8yRE

About Terroir and Spice

On behalf of Union des Producteurs de Vins Mâcon

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES