Addressing the Brain Drain Phenomenon in Malaysia: A Comprehensive Analysis of Global Policy Frameworks, Governmental Strategies, and the Integral Role of SMEs in Talent Repatriation and Sustainable Growth

The research explores the problem of brain drain in Malaysia by combining qualitative case studies(successful policies in the world, such as China, Taiwan, South Korea, India) with a survey of Malaysiansoverseas. It studies four major variables, which are government incentives, competitive salaries, qualityof life and recognition and concludes that the variables positively impact the intention to return, butrecognition is found to be the most effective. The research utilizes Maslow hierarchy of needs and thetheory of reasoned action to develop a strong model of psychological and economic reasons to talentrepatriation.This research adopts an exploratory mixed-methods approach, reviewing strategiesemployed by countries that have successfully reversed brain drain and identifying key factors thatencourage Malaysians to return. Statistical analysis, including ANOVA, multiple regression, and Pearsoncorrelation, will be used. The findings suggest that government-backed venture capital initiatives shouldprioritize sectors aligned with Malaysia’s economic goals and provide research grants to privatecompanies and leading universities to support sustainable growth and strengthen Malaysia’s image as anation that values academic and technological progress. Received: 07 August 2025 / Accepted: 11 February 2026 / Published: March 2026