Contemporary migration between Malaysia and Australia: transnational and settlement experiences

Abstract

Australia hosts a large contingent of overseas Malaysians which has evolved from a number of waves of migration, particularly in recent years. The contemporary migration relationship between the two countries is complex involving movement in both directions, along with the transnational linkages which have generated wide research and policy interest, but little studied in the Malaysia – Australia context. This study provides a deeper understanding of why Malaysians move to Australia, how well they settle in, and how they maintain links with Malaysia. It adopts a mixed-methods approach using quantitative and qualitative analysis drawing on data collected in an online survey of 1033 Malaysians living in Australia, and 30 interviews with survey respondents and key informants. The findings show that there are three categories of migrants: 1) student; 2) economically active age group; and 3) retirees. The first group is characterised by young, predominantly Malay students, whereas the second is mainly made up of Chinese holding skilled visas. The third group was dominated by females, predominantly Chinese and aged over 50 years. These migrants play a distinct role in their host country, and represent potential resources for their home country too. They are highly skilled, visit their home country frequently for business and leisure, and many retain a strong sense of connection and identification with the countries they move between. The return intentions vary significantly between the Malays and the other ethnic groups, with many intending to stay in Australia. The Malays were very positive about their overseas presence being beneficial to Malaysia, were more likely to return, and over a-quarter own a home and property there. The Chinese were more likely to stay and settle permanently in Australia. A smaller survey of 134 Australians in Malaysia provide an interesting insight into factors contributing to patterns of movement between Australia and Malaysia. Most were in the economically active age groups, on work contracts, and also most likely to return to Australia. Through a better understanding of these migrants, their migration decisions and potential contribution to Malaysia, it is possible to examine the reciprocal migration flows between Australia and Malaysia.