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July 31, 2026MDEC Updates Process for Foreign Knowledge Worker (FKW) Headcount and Individual Applications
The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has recently updated the process for Foreign Knowledge Worker (FKW) headcount and individual applications. This may be relevant should your company be planning any upcoming new or additional FKW applications or headcount requests.
Key points:
- Headcount Declaration Discontinued (effective 25 May 2026): The “FKW Headcount Declaration” function in the eXpats System has been discontinued. Companies may continue to utilise their remaining approved FKW headcount for individual FKW applications.
- New FKW Projection Request (effective 3 June 2026): Companies seeking new or additional FKW headcount must submit an FKW Projection Request via the eXpats system, with all mandatory supporting documents complete upfront. MDEC will review the request and the FKW Approval Committee will notify companies of the outcome of their request via the eXpats system. Processing of the request may take approximately 14 working days. Companies may only proceed with the submission of the FKW Individual Applications once projection headcount is approved.
- Additional Requirements for FKW Individual Applications (effective 1 June 2026): Companies should now start preparing:-
- Succession Plan information, where available, to support early readiness in alignment with the Succession Plan declaration intended to take effect from 1 January 2027;
- Proof of Global Business Services sector operations (for Non-Malaysia Digital (MD) companies) for applications under specific arrangements/requirements; and
- Justification where native / near-native language ability is required for a role.
Companies with pending or upcoming FKW headcount or individual applications should review their internal processes and documentation to ensure alignment with the updated requirements.
Should you have any queries or would like to know more about this recent update, please do not hesitate to reach out to our Employment & Industrial Relations Practice Group for further assistance.