How to Become a Software Engineer in Malaysia – Qualifications, Skills & Career Guide

From bootcamps to bachelor’s degrees, here’s how you can start and thrive in a software engineering career in Malaysia—plus the must-have skills and certifications to stand out.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-04-02 at 3:12 AM

Updated on 2025-04-02 at 3:12 AM

How to Become a Software Engineer in Malaysia

A career in software engineering is one of the most rewarding, flexible, and future-proof options in Malaysia today. With the rise of digital transformation, companies across all industries—from finance and healthcare to e-commerce and entertainment—are seeking tech talent that can build robust, scalable systems and applications.

Whether you're a student exploring your future, a fresh grad looking to enter tech, or someone planning a career switch, this guide will walk you through the steps, qualifications, and skills needed to become a software engineer in Malaysia.

Step 1: Get the Right Education (Formal or Alternative)

There are two main education routes into software engineering:

🎓 University Degree

Most software engineers start with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or IT-related fields. Top universities in Malaysia offering such degrees include UM, UTAR, and Monash University Malaysia.

💻 Coding Bootcamps and Online Courses

Alternatively, non-traditional paths like coding bootcamps (e.g. NEXT Academy, Le Wagon) or self-learning through platforms like Coursera and Udemy are becoming more accepted—especially if you can demonstrate strong coding skills through a portfolio or internship.

Read more on how to be a web developer in Malaysia

Step 2: Master Key Programming Skills

To be employable, you'll need to be fluent in:

Frontend Development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React or Vue

Backend Development: Python, Java, Node.js, PHP

Databases: SQL, MongoDB, Firebase

Version Control: Git and GitHub

Frameworks & Tools: Docker, Kubernetes, REST APIs

Having a GitHub portfolio and working on personal or open-source projects can greatly boost your chances during job applications and interviews.

Step 3: Gain Practical Experience

Practical experience is crucial. Here’s how you can get started:

Internships: Join companies offering developer internships to learn in real-world environments.

Freelancing: Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to build a portfolio while earning.

Hackathons and Open-Source Projects: Great for networking and showcasing your skills.

Explore these tips for first-time internships in Malaysia

Step 4: Consider In-Demand Certifications

While not always mandatory, certifications can validate your skills:

Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

AWS Certified Developer – Associate

Google Associate Android Developer

Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD)

These credentials help you stand out in competitive tech environments and demonstrate a commitment to continued learning.

Step 5: Soft Skills Matter Too

Technical skills alone aren’t enough. Employers also look for:

Problem-solving and analytical thinking

Team collaboration and communication

Adaptability and continuous learning

Time management and reliability

Check out the debate on soft skills vs. technical skills to see what really makes you stand out.

Career Growth & Salary Expectations

Entry-level software engineers in Malaysia typically earn around RM3,000–RM5,000 per month. With experience, mid-level and senior engineers can earn RM8,000–RM15,000 or more, depending on the industry and tech stack.

You can also branch into roles such as:

DevOps Engineer

Mobile App Developer

Data Engineer

Solutions Architect

Product Manager

If you're curious about switching fields, here’s how to pivot into tech careers successfully.

Ready to find your first software engineer role or switch into tech? Start exploring developer jobs on Hiredly or take the Work Personality Test to uncover the roles that best match your strengths and work style.

If you're a student or young professional, don’t miss out on joining the Young Talent Community—a space for early-career Malaysians to network, learn, and grow with peers and industry mentors. Discover more opportunities and resources at Hiredly. Your career in tech starts now.

By Matt Khoo on 2025-04-02 at 3:12 AM