Profiling international migrant labours by socio-demographic characteristics and motivational factors: The case of tourism and hospitality industry

• Main Authors: Mohd Shariff, Nurhazani, Mohd Nor, Nor Ashikin, Zainol Abidin, Azlan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Institute of Advanced Science Extension (IASE) 2017
• Subjects: GV Recreation Leisure; JV Colonies and colonization. Emigration and immigration. International migration
• Online Access: http://repo.uum.edu.my/22771/1/IJAAS%204%202%202017%2061%2067.pdf; http://repo.uum.edu.my/22771/; https://doi.org/10.21833/ijaas.2017.02.011
• Institution: Universiti Utara Malaysia

Purpose of this study is to profile the international migrant labours who are legally working in the tourism and hospitality industry in Malaysia.Langkawi has been chosen to present the scope of the study due to the fact that it is a world tourist destination.The profile presents a various pattern of international migrant labours socio-demographic characteristics and factors motivating them to work in the industry.It is noted that majority of the international migrant labours who are working in the tourism and hospitality industry in Langkawi consists of male within the range of 18 – 30 years old and single. Interestingly, majority of them are Indonesian, having a certificate and mostly educated from secondary school.Majority of them also contributes as semi-skilled labours.Regardless of various sectors in the tourism and hospitality industry, the international migrant labours enjoy working in the accommodation sector.Most of them have been working for 1– 5 years and receiving an income of RM1,000 – RM4,999 per month.The profile also highlights that majority of the international migrant labours want to gain new experience and most of them are also following their friends.Langkawi is chosen as a destination due to the fact that it is a beautiful island, easy to get around and also a peaceful place to work.Further, it is emphasized in the profile that the international migrant labours have chosen to work in the accommodation sector based on high wages factor.