Malaysia

In Malaysia, pre-employment background screening is not regulated, and the practice varies from one industry to another. Employers should obtain the individual's consent if the pre-hire checks require accessing, collecting, or processing the individual's personal data in order to comply with the Personal Data Protection Act 2010. Foreign nationals working in Malaysia must comply with immigration laws, including obtaining the appropriate employment passes. Employers must register foreign national employees with the Director General of Labour and inform the Director when their employment terminates within 30 days of the termination date. Companies can apply for employment passes for foreign national employees through the Expatriate Services Division (ESD) of the Immigration Department of Malaysia, and all companies must register with the ESD as a first step in hiring expatriates or foreign nationals.