Why Cybersecurity Is One of the Fastest-Growing Fields

By Nash Nithi

You’re living in a world that is more connected than ever. But that also means it’s more vulnerable. Cyberattacks, data breaches and hacking incidents are no longer distant headlines. They’re part of everyday digital reality. That’s why cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields globally. And programmes such as UNIMY’s Diploma in Information Technology (Cybersecurity) and the Bachelor of Information Technology (Cyber Security) (Hons) could be one of the smartest decisions you make for your future.

1. The Rising Threat Landscape and What It Means for You

Malaysia’s cyber threat landscape has intensified significantly. Recent industry reports show that Kaspersky blocked 27.9 million web threats locally in 2024, a clear indication that cyber attacks are increasing in volume and sophistication.

PwC further highlights that Malaysia’s finance, infrastructure and business sectors are now among the biggest targets for cybercriminals.

For you, this means one thing: the country urgently needs more cybersecurity professionals capable of defending systems, data and critical infrastructure.

2. A Massive Talent Gap + Rapid Market Growth

The demand for cybersecurity experts has exploded. According to Malaysia’s national cybersecurity roadmap, the country aims to train 20,000 cybersecurity professionals by 2025, highlighting the massive shortage of qualified talent.

CyberSecurity Malaysia also confirms strong growth projections for the cybersecurity market, with a high CAGR (Compund Annual Growth Rate) driven by digitalisation and cloud adoption.

At the same time, the PIKOM Digital Job Market Outlook states that cybersecurity professionals are among the highest-paid digital talent groups in Malaysia.

If you’re looking for stability, growth and financial potential, this is the field.

3. Why Cybersecurity Skills Are Becoming Essential

Cybersecurity isn’t growing by chance. Several global and local forces are driving the surge:

Digital Transformation
More businesses are moving their operations online, which creates more vulnerabilities.

AI-Driven Threats
AI is being used not only to strengthen defences but also to create smarter, automated cyberattacks.

IoT and Cloud Expansion
As organisations adopt IoT devices and cloud technologies, each connection becomes a potential attack point.

MSME Exposure
Small and medium businesses, the backbone of Malaysia’s economy, often lack proper cybersecurity frameworks, making them prime targets.

4. High-Value Career Pathways You Can Pursue

With cybersecurity qualifications, you can enter roles such as:

Cybersecurity Analyst
Ethical Hacker / Penetration Tester
Security Operations Centre (SOC) Analyst
Digital Forensics Specialist
Security Engineer or Architect
Threat Intelligence Analyst
Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) Officer

Demand is so high that many companies hire fresh graduates and train them internally.

5. The Skills You’ll Build and Why They Matter

To succeed, you’ll need competencies such as:

Network security
Operating system hardening
Threat detection and incident response
Encryption and secure coding
Vulnerability assessment and penetration testing
SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) tools
Analytical thinking and ethical decision-making

These skills help you become the first line of defence for any organisation, a responsibility that is becoming more critical by the day.

6. Why You Should Consider UNIMY for Cybersecurity Studies

UNIMY is one of Malaysia’s digital-focused universities and it offers two strong pathways for your cybersecurity future:

1. Diploma in Information Technology (Cybersecurity)

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This diploma gives you the essential foundation in Cybersecuruty, and some of the areas you'll explore are:

Risk Management
Internet Server Technologies
Introduction to Ethical Hacking and Intrusion Prevention
Digital & Cyber Laws
Operating Systems Concepts
Computer Architecture
Forensics in Digital Security

It’s ideal if you’re just starting your journey and want a solid technical base.

2. Bachelor of Information Technology (Cyber Security) with Honours

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This degree is perfect if you want to specialise deeply in cybersecurity. Among some of the areas you'll explore include:

Programming Fundamentals
Database Fundamental
Computer Organisation & Architecture
Database Essentials & Vulnerabilities
Cybersecurity Architecture
Advanced Networking
Cloud Computing
AI in Cybersecurity
Global Professional Practice
Industrial Training
Advanced Ethical Hacking and Intrusion Prevention

The bachelor’s degree prepares you for mid to senior-level roles and places you among the most sought-after cybersecurity graduates in the region.

7. Why Choosing Cybersecurity Matters

When you choose this field, you’re stepping into a mission-critical role:

You protect people’s data and privacy
You prevent financial losses for businesses
You support national cyber resilience
You help build trust in Malaysia’s digital economy
You contribute to securing emerging technologies like AI, fintech and smart cities
Your work literally keeps the digital world safe

Cybersecurity is expanding faster than almost any other field, and Malaysia urgently needs more trained professionals. Whether you start with UNIMY’s Diploma in IT (Cybersecurity) or advance into the Bachelor of Information Technology (Cyber Security) with Honours, you’re choosing a pathway that offers stability, high demand, strong salary potential and meaningful impact.

If you want a future-proof career that lets you shape Malaysia’s digital security landscape — this is where you begin.