Private tutoring is one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing and most profitable side hustles, with strong demand across SPM, IGCSE, A-Levels, and university-level subjects. Whether you’re a student, full-time professional, or qualified teacher, you can realistically earn RM5,000 or more each month, even on a part-time basis.
This step-by-step guide reveals what subjects pay the most, how much to charge, where to find students, and how to scale your income in 2025.
1. Why Private Tutoring is a High-Income Side Hustle
- High demand: Parents and students are willing to pay for quality tutors, especially for critical exams and skills.
- Flexible hours: Set your own schedule; teach online, in-person, or both.
- Low startup cost: All you need is a laptop, internet, and teaching material.
- Scalable income: You can grow by offering group classes, hiring other tutors, or selling online courses.
Many tutors in Malaysia now earn between RM3,000 and RM10,000 monthly, depending on subject, experience, and working hours.
2. How Much Can You Earn as a Tutor in Malaysia (2025)
Updated Hourly Rates (2025):
| Level/Subject | In-Person (RM/hr) | Online (RM/hr) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary School | 40 – 70 | 30 – 60 |
| Secondary (Form 1-3, PT3) | 60 – 100 | 50 – 90 |
| SPM / IGCSE | 70 – 120+ | 60 – 100+ |
| A-Levels / STPM / Foundation | 80 – 150+ | 70 – 140+ |
| University-Level Subjects | 80 – 160+ | 80 – 150+ |
| IELTS / MUET / Languages | 80 – 120+ | 70 – 110+ |
| Coding / Digital Skills | 70 – 120+ | 70 – 120+ |
| Art, Music, Specialised Skills | 70 – 105 | 60 – 90 |
Example
A part-time SPM tutor charging RM80/hour teaching 15 hours per week earns RM4,800/month.
3. Top Subjects in Demand (2025)
Academic Subjects:
- Math (Primary to A-Level)
- English (General + IELTS)
- Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology (SPM & IGCSE)
Languages:
- Mandarin, Japanese, Korean, Bahasa Melayu, Tamil
Skills-Based/Niche:
- Coding: Python, Java, Web Dev
- Art & Music (Piano, Violin, Vocal)
- Business English, Public Speaking
- Special Needs: ADHD, Dyslexia support
4. Where to Find Students in 2025
Online Platforms:
Freelance Sites:
- Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer (for online international clients)
Social Media & Classifieds:
- Facebook Groups, Instagram, TikTok (education niche)
- Carousell, Mudah.my.. post service ads with subject & rates
Referral Strategy:
- Offer trial classes or discounts for student referrals.
- Encourage satisfied parents to leave testimonials.
5. Online vs. In-Person: Which is Better?
Best Move: Start online, then offer in-person sessions for premium clients.
6. Tools You Need to Succeed
- Zoom / Google Meet: Video conferencing
- Wacom Tablet / iPad: Writing on-screen (especially for math/science)
- Canva / PowerPoint: Educational slides
- Google Drive / Notion: Organizing notes & tracking student progress
- OBS / CapCut: For pre-recorded lessons or content creation
7. How to Scale and Earn RM10,000+/Month
- Group Classes: 3-5 students at RM50–RM80 each = RM150–RM400/hour
- Digital Products: Notes, workbooks, pre-recorded courses on Shopee or Gumroad
- YouTube & TikTok Channel: Grow a following + monetise
- Tutoring Agency: Onboard junior tutors and take commission
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8. Legal & Tax Requirements
- Declare earnings: Tutoring income is taxable (declare via LHDN)
- Register with SSM: Recommended if you’re earning consistently or running an agency
- Receipts & contracts: Always clarify payment terms with clients to avoid disputes
Final Thoughts
Tutoring in Malaysia is no longer just a part-time hustle, it’s a legitimate income stream with huge potential. Whether you want to earn RM1,000/month on the side or RM10,000/month full-time, the path is clear: pick high-demand subjects, advertise smartly, and scale with strategy.
Start small, stay consistent, and you’ll see results within a few months.
Private tutoring is one of the most flexible and profitable side hustles in Malaysia today. In fact, it ranks high among the best side hustles Malaysians are using to make RM3,000+ monthly.
Remember, earning RM5,000 per month as a tutor is just the beginning. To truly build wealth, you need to think long-term.. save, invest, and manage your money wisely. Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming rich in Malaysia in 2025 that every side hustler should read.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult a tax advisor or legal expert before starting any business.
