Strong economic growth for 2025, led by digital economy, manufacturing, and construction

Strong economic growth for 2025, led by digital economy, manufacturing, and construction

19 Dec 2024

Malaysia is expected to record continued robust economic growth in 2025, driven primarily by advancements in its digital economy, manufacturing, and construction sectors.

The latest insights from Randstad Malaysia’s 2025 Job Market Outlook and Salary Trends Report underscore the increasing demand for skilled professionals, as companies expand operations and investments within the country.

Randstad Malaysia country director Fahad Naheem said demand for talent with specialised skills is on the rise as businesses grow. 

“We’re seeing a significant need for skilled professionals proficient in technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and digital infrastructure. Additionally, digital integration is happening in corporate sectors, including legal, human resources, shared services, marketing, and accounting. 

“With these developments, employers are raising their hiring expectations, particularly in digital literacy and commercial acumen,” he said. 

A recent survey by Randstad Malaysia revealed that 59 per cent of employers plan to expand their teams in 2025, while 31 per cent will focus on maintaining their current headcount. 

It also stated that 41 per cent of employers expect the most hiring activity in technology, and 26 per cent of respondents plan to invest in hiring professionals for digital transformation and AI roles. 

In addition to digital growth driving tech-related hiring, 36 per cent of employers anticipate hiring sales and business development professionals to drive revenue growth. 

“We are also seeing traditional corporate functions like marketing and human resources taking on more commercial responsibilities, either to optimise resources or establish clearer revenue generation targets.”

However, 56 per cent of employers cited a lack of skilled talent as their top hiring challenge. 

Many organisations are also grappling with rising salary expectations amid tighter budgets.

In response, 52 per cent of companies in Malaysia plan to increase their hiring budgets in 2025, recognising that candidates with in-demand skills now have greater leverage during negotiations.

“As we look ahead to 2025, employers will likely face stiffer competition when hiring top talent in Malaysia. Many organisations are in growth mode and investing in recruitment and workforce development to boost productivity and drive higher revenue growth. 

“With our access to a large pool of pre-screened professional talent and deep understanding of workforce trends, we’re committed to helping employers find the right talent—one that values lifelong learning, agility, and adaptability,’ added Naheem.

Source: NST