Malaysia's unemployment rate remained unchanged in November of last year, as the number of jobless individuals dropped while the labour force grew, according to the latest data.

The country’s unemployment rate stayed at 3.2%, with the number of unemployed people falling to 546,700, down from 551,400 in the previous month. 

“Malaysia's continued strong economic performance towards the end of 2024 has led to the country's labour market position becoming more stable in November 2024,” leading to the rise in the number of employed individuals, according to chief statistician, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin in a statement released on Friday.

The number of employed people also rose by 0.2%, from 16.72 million to 16.75 million. As a result, the labour force grew by 0.1%, reaching 17.29 million people, The Edge Malaysia reports.

In addition, the labour force participation rate remained steady at 70.5% in November. The employee category, which makes up the majority of the workforce, saw a 0.1% increase, reaching 12.54 million individuals in November.

The number of own-account workers, those who run their own farm or business or engage in full-time trade without hiring paid employees, increased by 0.4%, reaching 3.11 million.

By sector, employment in the services sector continued to rise, particularly in wholesale and retail trade, transportation and storage, as well as information and communication activities. The manufacturing, construction, mining, quarrying, and agriculture sectors also saw employment growth.

Furthermore, the youth unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 to 24 remained unchanged at 10.4%, with 300,600 unemployed youths.

Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for those aged 15 to 30 dropped to 6.2%, with 415,600 unemployed, down from 420,200 in the previous month.