Career Opportunities vs. Hometown Roots: Why Young Adults Are Leaving Ipoh

IPOH, Feb 22 — Known for its relaxed lifestyle and affordable living, Ipoh lacks the career growth opportunities that many young adults seek. As a result, many move to bigger cities, where demanding jobs and fast-paced environments make it difficult to return, even for short visits.

For Edwin Prashath Sekar, 30, career advancement was the main reason he left Ipoh. Moving to Johor in 2021 secured him a promotion and exposure to a multinational work environment. Now based in Kuala Lumpur, his visits home are rare due to time constraints, travel costs, and traffic congestion. He would consider returning if job prospects matched those in larger cities, but for now, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor offer better opportunities.

Amanda Yap, now living in Singapore, has little reason to return to Ipoh. With her life rooted in Singapore, she prioritizes travel over visiting her hometown. For her, career growth is just one factor—she also values Singapore’s efficient public transport, safer environment, and better overall quality of life.

Similarly, Ili Aqilah, 35, moved to Selangor for better career prospects and financial goals. Staying in Ipoh would have limited her growth, and her husband also struggled to find work there. While she enjoys visiting her hometown, her work schedule makes it challenging.

Victoria Micheal Dass, 29, highlights the lack of job diversity in Ipoh, especially in corporate sectors. Many listings require extensive experience or Mandarin proficiency, limiting opportunities for non-Chinese-speaking candidates. She found better prospects in Subang Jaya, where job demand is higher.

While many young professionals still cherish their hometown, career-driven choices and limited opportunities push them to build their futures elsewhere. Until Ipoh offers more competitive job options, this trend is likely to continue.