Johor's Population

Johor's population, estimated at 3.17 million in 2006, is projected to grow to 4.4 million by 2020. In terms of ethnic breakdown, the Malays (Bumiputeras) comprise 54%, Chinese (33%) and Indians (6%).

Johor’s population is relatively young, with 50% of the 3 million people in 2004 falling into the 15 to 44-year age group. This is an asset as the State pushes for rapid industrial development.

Workforce

The active workforce in Johor was increased by 2.43% per year between 1991and 2000. During this 9 year period, a total of 256,900 job opportunities were created, while unemployment dropped from 3.3% in 1991 to 2.3% in 2000.

The availability of manpower, in fact, is projected to grow further by 2.88% between now and 2020. Unemployment is also projected to decline from 2.3% in 2000 to 2.0% in 2020.

Main Labour Trends

  • There is significant migration of labour from rural to urban areas due to job opportunities in manufacturing, services and other primary employment sectors
  • However, there is population imbalance due to disparities in the status of development of the various Johor districts
  • Job availability is mainly concentrated in developed districts such as Johor Bahru, Muar, Batu Pahat and Kluang
  • Demand for skilled labour is on the rise as Johor aims for more high-tech, capital intensive and export-orientated industries.