Still Jobless Six Years After Graduating
A 32-year-old business management graduate from Ipoh, Malaysia, says he has attended more than 50 job interviews over the past six years, only to be repeatedly turned down, often with the same reason given.
“Every time I go for an interview, one of the responses I get is that they can’t afford to hire me because I have a degree,” Khairul Akmal Razali told Sinar Harian on Tuesday (29 April 2025).
Despite actively applying for positions through the Public Services Commission (SPA) and the Education Services Commission (SPP) every year, he was never called up for a single interview.
Struggles to Cope with Financial Responsibilities
Khairul, who is married with one child, said he had no choice but to take up gig work such as food delivery and being a night market vendor due to his high level of commitment.
Over time, these jobs have helped him provide for his family and manage his monthly expenses.
Furthermore, he still faces the burden of student debt from his studies at the diploma and degree levels that need to be repaid.
In addition, Khairul said earning a lower salary isn’t a problem for him, as long as the job offers flexible hours and stability.
Unfortunately, opportunities that meet those conditions have yet to come.
Selling Sambal to Make Ends Meet
To earn extra money, Khairul also began selling crispy fried sambal (chilli paste) on a small scale. He shared that his passion for business drove him to pursue this venture.
Though he has a degree in business management, he shared that he is open to any job that can help support his family.
While he’s still looking out for other job opportunities, he is also putting time and effort into growing the business, hoping it can give his family a more stable future.
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
After 14 Years, Malaysian Man Finally Lands Dream Government Job at 37
Food Delivery Rider Stays Calm and Claps Back After Woman Mocked His Job
Over 900 Johor Students Skip SPM, Eyeing Better Paying Jobs in Singapore
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
If you can, please do consider buying a mug or two to support Wake Up Singapore’s work!
