Thinking about a career in tech? You’re on the right track.

Malaysia is estimated to experience a shortage of digital talent in crucial areas such as cybersecurity, big data analytics and software development, according to the MDEC Digital Talent Report. This is no surprise given how digital technology is rapidly evolving and expanding across the world.

In this article, we explore the hottest fields of digital technology in Malaysia that are forecasted to have high employment opportunity.

#1. Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is the process of protecting and recovering systems, networks, devices, and programmes from digital attacks. These attacks pose a threat to companies, employees and even consumers as they aim to access, change or destroy sensitive information, extort money or interrupt business operations. This can eventually destroy businesses and affect people’s financial and personal lives.

Developing effective cybersecurity measures is a challenge these days as attackers are becoming more innovative. This is why the country is in need of people to help make smart cyber defence choices. So, if you’d like to fight crimes behind the computer, this field is for you!

Jobs with shortage of talent: Security specialist, security analyst, incident responder, cryptographer

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,233

#2. Big Data Analytics

Big data analytics is a complex process of examining a varied and large volume of data (a.k.a. big data) to reveal important information such as hidden patterns, market trends, consumer preferences and other unknown insights and correlations.

With big data analytics, organisations can use the data retrieved to reduce costs, make better decisions and deliver products and services that satisfy the needs of customers. For example, if a company wanted to launch a new line of sugar-free drinks, big data analytics can be used to determine consumer preferences (e.g. colour, flavour, packaging) before the product is launched.

So, if you love analysing data and have an interest in coding, the field of big data may be just the thing for you.

Jobs with shortage of talent: Programmer/developer, data analyst, software QA engineer, team lead

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,750

#3. Internet of Things (IoT)

Do you enjoy asking Siri silly questions? Ever wondered how Siri manages to retrieve the information you ask for? Well, you can thank the Internet of Things (IoT) for this possibility.

In a nutshell, the Internet of Things refers to the connection of everyday devices to the internet. These devices are embedded with internet connectivity, communication capabilities and hardware (e.g. sensors) so that they can be controlled and monitored remotely.

IoT technology is what enables you to control your lights, home security cameras, coffee makers and television through devices such as your smartphone. So if you’re up for inventing some cool tech to improve people’s lives, IoT is for you!

Jobs with shortage of talent: Software QA engineer, solution architect, programmer/developer, data scientist

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,392

#4. Financial Technology (FinTech)

Simply put, Financial Technology or FinTech is when technology is used in financial services, replacing the use of traditional methods. 

For example, instead of having to visit the bank, people can now use their smartphones for banking transactions, investment services and cryptocurrency. If you’ve ever used applications such as CIMB Clicks, BigPay, DuitNow and GrabPay, then you’ve been part of the FinTech ecosystem!

As the need for online transactions is increasing, jumping into the field of FinTech can possibly make you big bucks.

Jobs with shortage of talent: Tech helpdesk analyst, customer support engineer, programmer/developer, team lead

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,214

#5. E-Commerce

Are you guilty of spending too much time on online shopping platforms such as Lazada, Shopee or Amazon? Well, these are just some of the millions of e-commerce sites that exist in the world.

E-commerce is the process of selling and buying goods or services via online transactions through digital devices such as computers and mobile phones. These transactions are performed securely on websites or apps. Thanks to e-commerce, we don’t have to be at a physical store to purchase things anymore!

Jobs with shortage of talent: Programmer/developer, database architect, software QA engineer, webmaster

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,050

#6. Cloud Computing

Have you ever used Apple iCloud, Google Drive or Dropbox to store your files and images? If you have, you’ve been using a cloud service!

In short, cloud computing is the use of services via the internet (called the “cloud”). It allows many users to share resources without having to set up their own IT infrastructure.

For instance, if you want to start an online business, there is no need for you to purchase server hardware to host your website. You can simply use web hosting services such as Amazon Web Services. Need to use Microsoft Excel to plan your budget? Instead of installing the programme on your laptop, you can use Google Sheets, which is accessible from any device as long as you have internet connectivity.

With an increasing demand for cloud services due to their flexibility, efficiency and accessibility, your future will be bright if you specialise in this field.

Jobs with shortage of talent: Network engineer, IT security specialist, computer operator, IT business development manager

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,000

#7. Creative Content and Technologies (CCT)

Have you ever wondered how your favourite movies, animations or video games were produced? Well, they were brought to life by the geniuses from the creative content and technologies (CCT) field!

CCT is a wide field that combines computing, design, art and humanities to create a multi-sensory experience. It involves talents who create and enhance digital content using animation, video production, virtual reality, video editing, 3D printing and other exciting technologies.

So if you love both arts and tech, you should certainly hop on board this increasingly popular industry.

Jobs with shortage of talent: Digital artist, animator, 3D modeler, graphic designer

Average monthly salary for fresh graduates: RM2,012

With so many options to choose from in digital technology, you can’t go wrong with a career in this field! If you’re unsure of which of these fields to study, don’t worry. Leave a message here and our education advisors will help you decide on the most suitable path for you.

Interested in taking up a course that involves all things tech? Check out our comprehensive guide to studying computer science here.