Cyber Security Analyst: Job opportunities, Skills and Requirements

The role of a Cyber Security Analyst is vital in today’s digitally interconnected world. Cyber Security Analysts are responsible for protecting an organization’s information systems from cyber threats, including hacking, data breaches, and other forms of cyberattacks. These professionals monitor networks, detect vulnerabilities, respond to security incidents, and develop strategies to prevent future attacks.

Given the rapid expansion of the digital landscape, the demand for cybersecurity experts has increased significantly across the globe. Cyber Security Analysts are at the forefront of defending organizations from a range of threats, making them indispensable to any institution reliant on technology. For individuals pursuing a career in this field, Malaysia offers a fertile ground for education, career growth, and development, thanks to the country’s booming tech industry and government initiatives focused on digital transformation.

Global and Malaysian Job Market Overview

Global Cybersecurity Job Market

• Increased demand: The global cybersecurity market is projected to grow from USD 165.78 billion in 2023 to USD 366.10 billion by 2028.
• Talent shortage: The (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study revealed a significant shortage of cybersecurity professionals, with over 3 million open positions worldwide.
• Diverse opportunities: Cybersecurity professionals can work in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, and retail.

Cybersecurity Job Market in Malaysia

• Government Initiatives: The Malaysian government, through CyberSecurity Malaysia (a national cybersecurity specialist center), is actively working to increase awareness and build cybersecurity capabilities across industries.
• Private Sector Demand: Major corporations, especially in the finance and telecommunications sectors, are looking for skilled cybersecurity experts to mitigate cyber risks.
• Startups and SMEs: With Malaysia’s growing startup ecosystem, there is increasing demand for cybersecurity analysts to protect emerging businesses from cyber threats.

Key Responsibilities of a Cyber Security Analyst

• Monitoring and Analysis: Continuously monitor an organization’s network for unusual activity, suspicious behavior, or security breaches.
• Incident Response: Manage containment, mitigation, and investigation procedures to minimize damage.
• Vulnerability Assessment: Identify vulnerabilities in hardware, software, and network configurations through regular security assessments and penetration testing.
• Implementation of Security Measures: Implement various tools and protocols, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption, to safeguard data.
• Threat Intelligence: Gather and analyze threat intelligence to stay ahead of cyber threats and develop proactive strategies to mitigate potential attacks.
• Compliance: Ensure adherence to cybersecurity laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Training and Awareness: Educate other employees about security best practices to reduce human error-related vulnerabilities.

Essential Skills for a Cyber Security Analyst

Technical Skills

• Network Security: Securing networks, firewalls, and routers.
• Operating Systems: Familiarity with Windows, Linux, and macOS.
• Intrusion Detection and Prevention: Configuring and using IDS and IPS.
• Penetration Testing: Performing tests to identify vulnerabilities.
• Encryption: Knowledge of encryption protocols.
• Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Proficiency in SIEM tools.

Analytical Skills

• Problem-Solving: Quickly and efficiently solving complex problems.
• Attention to Detail: Detecting anomalies and vulnerabilities.
• Critical Thinking: Assessing data points to draw logical conclusions.

Soft Skills

• • Communication: Effectively explaining threats and solutions.
  • Teamwork: Collaborating with various departments.

Technical Skills: Mastery in Tools and Technologies

• • • Firewalls: Protect networks from unauthorized access.
    • IDS/IPS: Detect suspicious activities.
    • Antivirus/Antimalware Software: Detect and remove malicious software.
    • SIEM Tools: Analyze real-time security alerts.
    • Encryption Software: Secures data by converting it into unreadable code.
    • Vulnerability Scanners: Identify and analyze security flaws.

Educational Requirements and Qualifications

Common Degrees for Cyber Security Analysts

• • • Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber Security
    • Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
    • Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology

Cyber Security Certifications

• • • Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
    • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
    • CompTIA Security+
    • Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
    • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

How to Become a Cyber Security Analyst in Malaysia

• • • Education: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity or a related field.
    • Certifications: Supplement your degree with certifications like CEH or CISSP.
    • Internships: Gain hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs.
    • Networking: Join cybersecurity communities and attend industry events.
    • Job Application: Apply for entry-level positions to start your career.

Annual Salary

The chart below shows the average wages of Cyber Security Analysts in 9 different countries in 2024, highlighting considerable differences in compensation.

The United Kingdom leads with an average pay of $127,502, followed by Denmark at $125,839, suggesting that cybersecurity expertise is in high demand and valued in both locations.

The United States, an important player in the technology business, pays an average of $118,812, indicating a significant investment in cybersecurity.

Norway and the Netherlands also rank as top paying countries, with average wages of $109,418 and $105,963, respectively.

Belgium, Canada, and Germany provide respectable salaries ranging from $104,150 to $102,181, in line with their increased focus on digital security.

Australia completes the group with an average salary of $100,640, demonstrating the global importance and respect of cybersecurity professions in today’s technology driven landscape.

These numbers demonstrate the differing degrees of priority and resources dedicated to cybersecurity across countries.

Popular Cyber Security Courses in Malaysia

• • • Asia Pacific University (APU)
    • Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
    • Multimedia University (MMU)
    • HELP University
    • SEGi University

Work Environment of Cyber Security Analysts

• • • Corporate Offices
    • Government Agencies
    • Remote Work

Career Growth and Opportunities

• • • Senior Security Analyst
    • Security Consultant
    • Security Architect
    • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
    • Penetration Tester/Ethical Hacker

Common Challenges Faced by Cyber Security Analysts

• • • Evolving Threats
    • High-Stress Environment
    • Long Hours
    • Complexity

Cyber Security Laws and Regulations in Malaysia

• • • Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA)
    • Computer Crimes Act 1997
    • Communications and Multimedia Act 1998

Internship and Job Placement Opportunities

• • • Internship Programs
    • Career Fairs
    • Job Placement Services

FAQs About Cyber Security Analysts

• • • What does a Cyber Security Analyst do? A Cyber Security Analyst is responsible for monitoring networks, identifying vulnerabilities, and preventing cyberattacks to protect an organization’s data and systems.
    • What qualifications are needed to become a Cyber Security Analyst? Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field, along with industry-recognized certifications such as CEH or CISSP.
    • What skills are essential for a Cyber Security Analyst? Essential skills include network security, knowledge of operating systems, intrusion detection, penetration testing, and strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
    • What are the job prospects for Cyber Security Analysts in Malaysia? Job prospects are strong due to the increasing digital transformation and government initiatives promoting cybersecurity awareness. There are opportunities in various sectors including finance, telecommunications, and government agencies.
    • Are there any popular courses for Cyber Security in Malaysia? Yes, some popular courses are offered by Asia Pacific University (APU), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and Multimedia University (MMU), among others.
    • What is the expected salary for a Cyber Security Analyst in Malaysia in 2025?In 2025, Cyber Security Analysts in Malaysia are expected to earn the following salaries:Entry-level (1-3 years of experience): RM 48,000 to RM 72,000 annually.
      Mid-level (4-6 years of experience): RM 72,000 to RM 120,000 annually.
      Senior-level (7+ years of experience): RM 144,000 to RM 240,000 annually.