Data Scientist
RisingTechnology
Uses statistics, programming and machine learning to turn large datasets into predictions and business decisions. Hired by banks, telcos, e-commerce, GLCs and the regional tech hubs in KL and Cyberjaya.
Picture the job
Where you'd usually workA data and analysis desk
An illustration of a typical workplace, not a photo. Real workplaces vary.
In Malaysia
- How people get into it here
- SPM (strong Additional Maths) → Matrikulasi, Asasi, STPM or Diploma → Bachelor's in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics or Actuarial/Mathematics → junior data analyst or data scientist role; a Master's helps for research-heavy or AI roles.
Pay in the private market
Monthly pay from fresh grad to mid-career, from the salary guide cited on this page.
Entry
Mid-career
Government pay isn't shown: we haven't yet sourced the SSPA civil-service salary tables, and we won't estimate them.
Job demand outlook
Hiring is growing: more openings expected over the next few years.
Your readiness
How your current SPM subjects line up with this career.
Add your SPM grades to see how ready you are for this career.
Add my gradesHow to get here
Post-SPM pathways with programmes in this career's fields. Tap one to see real programmes and entry requirements.
Matriculation
One or two years, heavily subsidised with allowance. Competitive, quota-based entry.
Asasi / Foundation
One-year runway into a specific university: public via UPU or private direct entry.
Diploma
Skill-first qualification. Work after, or enter degree Year 2. Polytechnics keep it affordable.
Check what you may qualify for
Enter your SPM grades and see which routes and programmes you may qualify for. An estimate to plan with, not an offer.
Quick answers
How do you become a Data Scientist in Malaysia?
SPM (strong Additional Maths) → Matrikulasi, Asasi, STPM or Diploma → Bachelor's in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics or Actuarial/Mathematics → junior data analyst or data scientist role; a Master's helps for research-heavy or AI roles.
What should I study to become a Data Scientist?
Related fields of study: Data Science, Computer Science and Science. SPM subjects that help most: Additional Mathematics, Computer Science / ICT, Mathematics and English.
How much does a Data Scientist earn in Malaysia?
Published figures put starting pay at RM6,000 a month, and RM15,000 with experience (source: Randstad Malaysia 2025 Job Market Outlook & Salary Guide (Technology: junior / middle), Jan 2025).
Subjects that matter here
The SPM subjects worth your effort for this career, with the reason for each.
Skills to build
What beginner adverts asked for
We read 112 internship and fresh-graduate adverts in related fields (August 2026). A small sample from one job site, not every vacancy.
80 of 112 were internships
Allowance or pay, when stated
RM800 – RM2,800
53 of 112 adverts printed an amount: usually between RM800 and RM2,800 a month. Many print none.
Minimum CGPA asked
2.00 to 3.50
Stated in 13 adverts. Others did not state one.
Languages named
Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin
An empty line means the adverts did not say, not that employers have no requirement. Check each employer's own advert before you plan around it.
About this information
This describes what the job involves. Pay, demand and entry routes differ in Malaysia, so check the Pathways and Programmes pages for local requirements.
Source: Randstad Malaysia 2025 Job Market Outlook & Salary Guide (Technology: junior / middle) · as of Jan 2025
Job responsibilities, knowledge areas and work context from O*NET 30.3, US Department of Labor, used under CC BY 4.0. onetcenter.org