Engineering ranks as one of Malaysia’s most coveted professions and holds a prime spot in the country’s Critical Occupations List (COL). The top paying engineering jobs in Malaysia come with exceptional earning potential. Some specialists earn more than MYR 200,000 each year.
Robotics Engineers top the salary charts with yearly earnings reaching MYR 136,015. Experienced Electrical Engineers can earn even more, with salaries that exceed MYR 200,000. Engineering salaries differ based on specialization. Chemical Engineers take home around MYR 41,055 annually, while Environmental Engineers earn between MYR 40,000 and MYR 70,000.
We analyzed hundreds of job posts for each job category to come up with the salary range, required skills and educational qualifications.
Top paying Engineering jobs in Malaysia
Petroleum Engineers
Petroleum engineering rank among the highest paying engineering jobs in Malaysia. Their expertise in oil and gas extraction makes them valuable assets in the country’s energy sector, which is reflected in their compensation packages.
Salary Range and Benefits
Petroleum engineers earn some of the most competitive salaries in Malaysia’s engineering field. Their annual earnings range from RM 70,326 to RM 205,201, based on different calculation methods. Monthly take-home pay can reach RM 19,626, which makes this career path financially attractive.
| Experience Level | Salary Range (Annual) |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (0-1 years) | RM 99,368 – RM 142,477[32] |
| Early career (1-4 years) | RM 34,000 – RM 142,477 |
| Senior level (8+ years) | RM 257,426 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A four-year bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering opens the door to this career. You’ll need:
- An SPM or equivalent qualification
- Pre-university qualification with a minimum of 2Ds in A-Level or 2Cs in STPM (including Mathematics and Physics/Chemistry)
- Foundation in Science/Engineering with a minimum CGPA of 2.00.
Robotics and Mechatronics Engineers
Robotics and mechatronics engineers stand at the forefront of Malaysia’s tech workforce. These best paid engineers in Malaysia blend mechanical, electronic, and computer engineering principles to create automated systems and intelligent machines.
Salary Range and Benefits
Malaysian robotics engineers receive competitive pay packages that match their technical expertise. Their average gross salary now reaches RM142,021 per year, plus bonuses of around RM3,139. New engineers with 1-3 years of experience earn about RM100,209 yearly. Senior engineers with 8+ years of experience take home substantially higher salaries of around RM177,439.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (1-3 years) | RM100,209 |
| Mid-level (4-7 years) | RM142,021 |
| Senior-level (8+ years) | RM177,439 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
Every robotics engineer needs at least a bachelor’s degree in mechatronics engineering or a related field. UOW Malaysia KDU’s specialized programs come with recognition from the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC) Malaysia.
Success in this field depends on these key skills:
- Design analysis (83% industry requirement)
- Technical capabilities evaluation (75%)
- Test design expertise (67%)
- Planning capabilities (58%)
- Activity coordination (50%)
Electrical Engineers
Electrical Engineering is one of the high paying engineering jobs in Malaysia. Electrical engineers are vital to Malaysia’s power generation and distribution sectors. The government’s focus on renewable energy and grid expansion has created excellent opportunities for these professionals nationwide.
Salary Range and Benefits
Malaysian electrical engineers receive competitive compensation packages that depend on their experience and location. Their average monthly salary falls between RM 3,800 and RM 4,030, though this varies by city.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (<1 year) | RM 33,077 |
| Early career (1-4 years) | RM 39,641 |
| Mid-level | RM 45,468 |
| Senior level | RM 120,000 – 200,000 |
Location plays a major role in earning potential. Kuala Lumpur leads with an average monthly salary of RM 5,262, while Johor Bahru follows at RM 4,805. Senior electrical engineers can earn up to RM 7,625 monthly, especially in high-demand sectors.
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Council (EAC) launches an electrical engineering career. The Board of Engineers Malaysia’s 2009 signing of the Washington Accord ensures global recognition of Malaysian engineering qualifications.
Essential requirements include:
- Strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and chemistry
- Understanding of circuit theory, electronics, and power systems
- Knowledge of signal processing and control systems
- Proficiency in system design and problem-solving
Engineers must register with BEM as Graduate Engineers after graduation. They can then work toward Professional Engineer status with sufficient experience.
Chemical Engineers
Chemical engineers play a vital role in Malaysia’s manufacturing and industrial development. Chemical engineering is one of the high paying engineering jobs and the industry’s expansion has created more job opportunities in this field.
Salary Range and Benefits
Chemical engineers earn good money, and their pay varies by a lot based on their experience and where they work. Most engineers make between RM 3,750 to RM 7,500 per month nationwide. Metropolitan areas usually offer better pay.
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary Range | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | RM 3,500 – RM 5,000[143] | RM 42,000 – RM 60,000 |
| Mid-Level | RM 5,000 – RM 7,092 | RM 60,000 – RM 85,104 |
| Senior-Level | Up to RM 10,000 | Up to RM 120,000 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering serves as the foundation to start in this field. The typical curriculum has:
- Fundamental principles in chemistry, physics, biology and mathematics
- Core engineering courses including thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, mass transfer
- Plant and process design focusing on both chemical and biochemical processes
Malaysia’s 25 universities offer chemical engineering programs and produce about 2,500 graduates each year. Students need SPM completion and strong pre-university qualifications with good grades in mathematics and sciences.
Software Engineers
Software engineers are pioneering Malaysia’s digital transformation. Businesses welcome technology solutions in every sector, which creates a growing need for skilled professionals.
Salary Range and Benefits
Malaysian software engineers receive compensation based on their experience and location. New engineers start with competitive salaries compared to other fields.
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary Range | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | RM 3,000 – RM 5,000 | RM 36,487 – RM 60,000 |
| Mid-Level | RM 5,000 – RM 8,000 | RM 60,000 – RM 96,000 |
| Senior-Level | RM 10,000 – RM 15,000 | RM 100,000 – RM 365,000 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
Malaysian software engineering careers require:
- Bachelor’s degree in software engineering (preferred over software development)
- Strong English proficiency (minimum Band 5.0 IELTS for international students)
- Fluency in multiple programming languages
- Problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail
- Strong communication skills for client interaction
- Mathematical aptitude for solving complex problems
Aerospace Engineers
Aerospace engineering stands out as one of Malaysia’s fastest-growing technical fields. The industry has grown to become Southeast Asia’s second-largest hub and created more than 27,500 jobs in the maintenance, repair, and manufacturing sectors.
Salary Range and Benefits
Malaysian aerospace engineers earn competitive salaries that match their technical expertise. Annual salaries average around RM 24,661 in 2025. The actual amount varies based on experience and location.
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Early Career (1-4 years) | RM 11,761 | Medical (67%), Dental (67%), Vision (33%) |
| Mid-Career (5-9 years) | RM 77,000 | – |
| Senior Level | Up to RM 82,000 | Bonuses (up to RM 10,000) |
Aerospace engineers in Kuala Lumpur earn RM 58,486 yearly, which comes to about RM 5,100 monthly. GE starts fresh graduates at MYR 3,000-4,000 monthly. Asia Digital Engineering and STRAND Group pay between MYR 5,000-6,000 monthly.
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field serves as the basic requirement. Students complete this four-year program with fa ocus on aircraft design, development, testing, and manufacturing.
Key knowledge areas include:
- Aerodynamics and control engineering fundamentals
- Aircraft engineering technology
- Maintenance, repair, and overhaul management
- Flight safety protocols
Students can also choose diploma programs that provide hands-on technical training for aerospace technicians or maintenance engineers roles.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers play a vital role in Malaysia’s development. As one of the best paid engineers in Malaysia, they design and oversee essential projects that shape the nation’s infrastructure.
Salary Range and Benefits
Malaysian civil engineers earn competitive pay that grows by a lot as they gain experience. Their average base salary reaches RM 42,009 annually in 2025.
| Experience Level | Average Total Compensation |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (<1 year) | RM 30,979 |
| Early career (1-4 years) | RM 37,407 |
| Mid-career | RM 42,009 |
| Senior level | Up to RM 88,000 |
Your location can definitely boost your earning potential. Johor Bahru District leads with the highest average monthly salary at RM 4,499. Bintulu Division follows closely at RM 3,800.
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree is essential for most civil engineering roles. The core skills include:
- Computer-aided design software proficiency
- Structural engineering principles
- Environmental and geotechnical engineering
- Transportation engineering fundamentals
- Water and wastewater management
These professionals use engineering principles to create and maintain crucial infrastructure. Their work ranges from simple building repairs to complex stadium construction projects.
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers are one of the best paid engineers in Malaysia. They are versatile problem-solvers who combine innovative design skills with hands-on applications in Malaysia’s manufacturing and production environments.
Salary Range and Benefits
Malaysian mechanical engineers earn competitive salaries that change based on their experience and where they work. The average monthly compensation reaches RM 4,127 nationwide. Engineers can expect to earn around RM 44,092 annually in 2025.
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (<1 year) | RM 2,926 | RM 32,919 |
| Early career (1-4 years) | RM 3,469 | RM 41,629 |
| Senior-level | RM 7,390 | Up to RM 98,000 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree opens doors to mechanical engineering careers. Core subjects include:
- Mechanics, dynamics, and thermodynamics
- Materials science and structural analysis
- Control systems and instrumentation
Students learn to use essential tools like computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), and product lifecycle management during their studies. Companies look for candidates who excel at analysis, problem-solving, and communication.
Biomedical Engineers
Biomedical engineering is one of the top paying engineering jobs in Malaysia. Biomedical engineers connect medicine with technology to create groundbreaking healthcare solutions. Their work improves patient care throughout Malaysia’s expanding medical sector.
Salary Range and Benefits
The compensation for biomedical engineers in Malaysia varies based on their experience and location. Market data from multiple sources reveals different salary levels.
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| [Entry-level (<1 year) | RM 2,023 | RM 24,271 |
| Early career (1-4 years) | RM 3,140 | RM 32,244 |
| Mid-level | RM 3,200-4,500 | RM 38,400 |
| Senior level (8+ years) | RM 7,500+ | RM 90,000 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering serves as the foundation. Programs teach specialized knowledge in:
- Medical instrumentation and biomechanics
- Biomaterials and medical imaging
- Biomedical signal processing
- Biomedical computing and simulation
Students learn to apply mathematics, natural sciences, and engineering basics to tackle complex biomedical challenges. The Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) accredits these programs to ensure graduates meet industry standards.
Environmental Engineers
Environmental engineers protect Malaysia’s natural resources. They use scientific and engineering principles to safeguard air, water, and land from contamination. These professionals create innovative solutions for today’s environmental challenges.
Salary Range and Benefits
Environmental engineers in Malaysia earn well, with salaries varying by region. Monthly pay averages between RM 3,500 to RM 4,400, depending on location.
| Experience Level | Monthly Salary Range | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | RM 2,400 – RM 3,500 | RM 28,800 – RM 42,000 |
| Mid-level | RM 4,092 – RM 5,000 | RM 49,104 – RM 60,000 |
| Senior level | RM 6,458 – RM 7,817[332] | RM 77,496 – RM 93,804 |
Educational Qualifications and Skills Required
A bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering serves as the starting point. Students complete this degree in four years. The program covers:
- Water treatment and solid waste management
- Industrial and hazardous waste handling
- Domestic and industrial wastewater treatment
These professionals must excel at problem-solving to develop technologies that reduce environmental effects and minimize waste and pollution. They also need strong teamwork skills because projects often need collaboration with various stakeholders.
Engineering Job Outlook in Malaysia (2025-2030)
Malaysia’s engineering sector will see major progress between 2025-2030. Smart policies drive expansion in many technical domains. The country’s push toward advanced technology creates exciting prospects for engineering professionals.
Growth Sectors for Engineering Professionals
Engineering fields will thrive as the digital economy is expected to make up over 25% of Malaysia’s GDP by 2025. Here are the key growth areas:
- Semiconductor Engineering
- Salary Range: RM84,000-RM216,000 annually
- Skills Required: IoT device design, advanced packaging expertise, material science knowledge
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Salary Range: RM72,000-RM120,000 annually
- Skills Required: Solar system design, grid integration, energy storage solutions
The country wants to boost renewable energy to 20% by 2025 and 31% by 2035. This creates jobs for qualified professionals in the sector.
Comparison of Engineering Salaries Across Disciplines
| Engineering Field | Entry-Level (RM) | Mid-Career (RM) | Senior Level (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software | 36,487-60,000 | 60,000-96,000 | 100,000-365,000 |
| Petroleum | 99,368-142,477 | 142,477-200,000 | Up to 257,426 |
| Mechanical | 32,919 | 41,629 | Up to 98,000 |
| Civil | 30,979 | 37,407-42,009 | Up to 88,000 |
| Environmental | 28,800-42,000 | 49,104-60,000 | 77,496-93,804 |
The New Industrial Master Plan 2030 aims to create 3.3 million manufacturing jobs with a median wage of RM4,510. This shows strong growth potential in engineering disciplines.
Conclusion
Engineering careers in Malaysia show exceptional growth potential through 2030. Software engineers at senior levels can earn up to RM 365,000 yearly, while petroleum engineers make RM 257,426. These impressive numbers show how much companies need technical expertise in industries of all sizes.
The Malaysian engineering field is full of opportunities. New areas like robotics, renewable energy, and artificial intelligence are taking center stage. The digital economy will make up more than 25% of GDP by 2025, which is a big deal as it means strong job prospects ahead. The manufacturing sector’s growth promises 3.3 million new positions with attractive salary packages.
Location and experience create big differences in engineering salaries. Kuala Lumpur pays the highest rates in all engineering fields. Johor Bahru and Penang follow as major industrial centers. Senior positions earn premium salaries, especially when you have experience in petroleum, software, and robotics engineering.
FAQs
Q1. What is the projected salary increase for best paid engineers in Malaysia in 2025? A 5% salary increase is projected across all industries in Malaysia in 2025, with some engineering fields like software and petroleum potentially seeing higher increases of 10-15% due to high demand.
Q2. What are the highest paying engineering jobs in malaysia? Petroleum engineering consistently ranks as one of the highest-paying engineering fields in Malaysia, with senior-level salaries reaching up to RM 257,426 annually. Software engineering also offers high earning potential, with senior roles commanding up to RM 365,000 per year.
Q3. How does location impact high paying engineering jobs salaries in Malaysia? Location significantly affects engineering salaries in Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur typically offers the highest compensation across disciplines, followed by major industrial hubs like Johor Bahru and Penang. For example, environmental engineers in Kuala Lumpur can earn between RM 5,000 and RM 10,000 monthly.
Q4. What are the key growth sectors for high paying engineering jobs in Malaysia from 2025-2030? Key growth sectors for engineering jobs in Malaysia include renewable energy, with a target of 31% market share by 2035, as well as automation, artificial intelligence, and Industry 4.0 technologies. The manufacturing sector is projected to create 3.3 million new jobs by 2030.
Q5. What qualifications are typically required for high paying engineering jobs in Malaysia? High-paying engineering jobs in Malaysia typically require a bachelor’s degree in the relevant engineering discipline. Additionally, professional certifications, such as achieving Professional Engineer (Ir./P.Eng.) status through the Board of Engineers Malaysia, can significantly boost career prospects and earning potential.
