Global apparel retailer UNIQLO has been recognised as one of the most preferred employers for young talent, earning top honours at the Graduate’s Choice Award (GCA) and the GRADUAN Brand Awards 2025. The accolades underscore the company’s reputation for structured career pathways, hands-on training, and supportive workplace practices.
At the Graduates’ Choice Award (GCA), UNIQLO was voted among the “Top 1% Graduates’ Employers to Work For” (Top 25th) and named Champion in the Fashion Category, based on votes from undergraduates and recent graduates across Malaysia. The company also secured 1st Runner Up in the Retail & E-Commerce category at the GRADUAN Brand Awards 2025, reinforcing its standing as a leading employer in the retail sector in Malaysia.
Mabel Lee, Human Resources Director, UNIQLO Malaysia, shared that: “These recognitions carry particular significance because they come directly from the graduate community. Young Malaysians today are looking for clarity on career progression, real operational experience, and leaders who actively support their growth. Knowing that young people see UNIQLO as a place where they can learn, be themselves, and build a global career means a great deal to us. Winning these awards remind us of our purpose of developing local talents and motivate us to keep supporting and growing together with them.”
To deepen engagement with students and universities, UNIQLO recently formalised Memorandums of Understanding with Monash University Malaysia and Universiti Sains Malaysia. These partnerships go beyond traditional recruitment, providing students with hands-on exposure to retail management and operational insights. Through internships, store visits, and mentoring opportunities, students can experience UNIQLO’s workplace culture, understand career pathways in retail, and develop practical skills that complement their academic learning.
“These collaborations allow students to gain first-hand experience of retail operations, leadership development, and team management,” added Mabel Lee. “It’s part of our commitment to building the next generation of leaders by giving them real-world exposure, practical guidance, and a supportive environment to grow.”
UNIQLO’s talent development framework focuses on practical skill-building and leadership readiness across both retail and corporate functions. Key initiatives include:
- UNIQLO Management Candidate (UMC): Prepares graduates for global leadership through structured training and mentoring, building strong business leaders in retail. As a fast-track pathway, it opens opportunities in retail area management, flagship store leadership, overseas assignments, and roles within the store support center (including marketing, training, and merchandising). This multi-level, cross-functional experience equips high-potential talents for senior leadership positions, including COO and Director roles.
- Global Management Programme (GMP): Offers international exposure to UNIQLO’s operations, allowing participants to gain insights into global retail practices. Employees work on hands-on projects and learn to navigate cross-cultural business environments.
- Scheduled In-store coaching and skills development: Provides ongoing guidance to build confidence on the shop floor and in office roles. Training focuses on improving performance standards while supporting personal and professional growth.
As UNIQLO marks its 15th anniversary in Malaysia, the company continues to expand opportunities for graduates across retail and management roles. Applications for the UMC and GMP programmes are now open. Interested applicants please visit www.uniqlo.com/my.