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Top 10 High Job Demand Programs in Malaysia
If you plan to study in Malaysia, it’s essential to know which programs lead to high-demand jobs. High-demand jobs usually offer better pay, more growth opportunities, and greater job security.
Industry 4.0
Technology is rapidly changing how we work and live. Many of the jobs that are in high demand today didn’t even exist 10 years ago. This shift means that students need to develop new skills and knowledge to stay relevant.
Industry 4.0 represents a significant change in manufacturing and other industries. For Malaysian students, this means choosing education paths that prepare them for future job markets. Malaysia is expected to create between 3.3 million and 6 million jobs by 2030. However, with the rise of automation, having the right training and skills is essential.
The cost of living in Malaysia is increasing, making it crucial for students to select degrees that lead to well-paying jobs. Let’s explore the top 10 high-demand job programs in Malaysia.
Top 10 High Job Demand Programs
1. Technology and Computing Programs
The IT industry in Malaysia is growing rapidly, especially since the pandemic. According to GlobalData Market Opportunities Forecasts, Malaysian IT spending is expected to reach RM103.75 billion by 2023. Cybersecurity is another booming field, expected to grow from RM3.9 billion in 2021 to RM5.5 billion in 2023. Despite this growth, there’s still a shortage of cybersecurity experts in Malaysia.
MyDIGITAL is a plan to make Malaysia a leader in the digital economy, aiming to create 500,000 jobs in the digital sector by 2030 and contribute 22.6% to Malaysia’s GDP.
Programs in this field include:
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Cyber Security
- Cloud Computing
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Network Computing
- Mobile Computing
- Game Development
2. Banking, Accounting, and Financial Services
Graduates in these fields are in high demand across many industries. The financial sector in Malaysia employs over 300,000 people, including those in Accounting, Banking, Economics, Finance, Insurance, Statistics, and Taxation. As Malaysia’s economy recovers, jobs in banking and finance are growing. Bank Negara plans to issue digital banking licenses in late 2023, which will boost the Fintech sector.
Fintech is growing fast due to changes in consumer behavior and regulations. In 2020, internet and mobile banking penetration reached 112.5% and 61.8% respectively, showing a significant increase in demand for digital banking services.
Programs in this field include:
- Accounting
- Finance
- Banking
- Actuarial Science
- Financial Technology (FinTech)
3. Business Programs
E-commerce has become a significant driver of Malaysia’s economic recovery. Many physical stores survived lockdowns by moving their operations online. The Department of Statistics Malaysia reported a 23.1% year-on-year increase in e-commerce in the first nine months of 2021. This growth is expected to continue, making business-related programs very attractive for students. The Malaysian logistics industry is also predicted to grow, adding more job opportunities in this sector.
Programs in this field include:
- Digital Marketing
- Business Analytics
- E-Business
- Human Resource Management
4. Engineering Programs
Malaysia is investing heavily in infrastructure, technology, and innovation, which increases the demand for engineers. There are many opportunities for engineers in different fields in Malaysia.
Electrical Engineers
Salaries range from MYR 36,000 to MYR 120,000 per year, with experienced engineers earning more.
Mechanical Engineers
Experienced mechanical engineers can earn over MYR 150,000 per year.
Civil Engineers
New civil engineers earn RM 2,500 to RM 4,500 per month, with experienced professionals earning RM 5,000 to RM 8,000 per month.
Environmental Engineers
Experienced environmental engineers can earn over MYR 100,000 annually.
Chemical Engineers
Experienced chemical engineers can earn over MYR 100,000 annually.
5. Law and Humanities Programs
Malaysia’s legal market is growing, especially in data privacy. There is high demand for data privacy counsel and corporate attorneys due to increased corporate governance and mergers. Programs in law and humanities prepare students for these roles.
Programs in this field include:
- Law
- International Relations
- Psychology
- Sociology
6. Communication and Social Science Programs
With high internet and social media use, Malaysia’s communication sector offers many job opportunities. Advertising Managers earn MYR 125,563 annually, while Art Directors earn between MYR 3,270 to MYR 10,400 monthly. Programs in communication and social science prepare students for these roles.
Programs in this field include:
- Mass Communication
- Public Relations, Advertising & Brand Management
- Film, TV, Video, or Broadcasting
7. Built Environment Programs
Several infrastructure projects are driving growth in Malaysia’s construction sector. Projects like MRT3 and LRT3 are expanding the rail network, boosting demand for built environment professionals. Programs in built environment fields prepare students for these roles.
Programs in this field include:
- Architecture
- Interior Architecture
- Quantity Survey (QS)
8. Hospitality and Tourism Programs
The World Travel & Tourism Council predicts the sector will create nearly 126 million jobs over the next decade. This industry is crucial for global economic recovery, offering various career opportunities. Programs in hospitality and tourism prepare students for these roles.
Programs in this field include:
- Culinary Arts
- Events Management
- Hotel Management
9. Health & Applied Science Programs
Malaysia needs more medical professionals to address health challenges. There’s a particular need for more physiotherapists. Currently, there are only 0.88 physiotherapists per 10,000 people. Programs in health and applied science prepare students for these roles.
Programs in this field include:
- Nursing
- Physiotherapy
- Food Science
- Biomedical Science
- Medical Imaging
10. Design & Creative Content Programs
With the shift to online retail and digital advertising, there’s a growing demand for creative designers in Malaysia. Programs in design and creative content prepare students for these roles.
Programs in this field include:
- Animation
- Graphic Design
- Multimedia Design
- Visual Effects
- Augmented Reality (AR) / Virtual Reality (VR)
- Game Design
FAQs
What are the highest-paying jobs in Malaysia?
Is there a demand for creative arts graduates in Malaysia?
How do I choose the right program for my career?
Are there scholarships available for these programs in Malaysia?
What skills are employers looking for in Malaysia?
Can international students apply for these programs in Malaysia?
Choosing the right program can significantly impact your career trajectory. The top 10 high job demand programs in Malaysia highlighted in this article offer excellent prospects and opportunities for growth. Whether you are drawn to technology, healthcare, business, or the arts, pursuing a program that aligns with market demand will enhance your employability and career success.
