Malaysian Firms Step Up AI Cybersecurity Skills Amid Talent Shortage, Fortinet Finds

Fortinet says Malaysian organizations are expanding cybersecurity training and AI skills development as talent shortages persist, recognising skilled professionals are essential to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.

Malaysian Firms Build Resilience

Malaysian organizations are accelerating investments in cybersecurity skills and professional certifications as artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes both cyber threats and digital defence, according to Fortinet’s 2026 Global Cybersecurity Skills Gap Report.

The report found that cybersecurity talent shortages remain one of the leading factors behind serious security breaches, with insufficient investment in skilled professionals continuing to expose organizations to growing cyber risks.

While Malaysian organizations are increasingly adopting AI-powered cybersecurity tools to strengthen detection and response capabilities, the report noted that technology alone is insufficient without a workforce equipped to manage AI-driven security operations.

Fortinet said organizations must continue upskilling and reskilling cybersecurity professionals to maximise the benefits of AI while responding to increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.

Country Manager of Fortinet Malaysia Kevin Wong said AI is transforming both cyberattacks and cyber defence, making skilled cybersecurity professionals more critical than ever.

“Organizations in Malaysia are embracing AI to strengthen their cybersecurity capabilities, but technology alone cannot address today’s evolving threat landscape,” he said.

He added that building cyber resilience requires sustained investment in people, processes and technology, alongside continuous training, certification and workforce development to prepare professionals for evolving security challenges.

Despite ongoing talent shortages, the report highlighted encouraging efforts by Malaysian organizations to attract and retain qualified cybersecurity professionals through stronger workforce development initiatives and certification programmes.

Fortinet said prioritising cybersecurity talent development will be essential as organizations face increasingly complex threats, with AI expected to play an even greater role in protecting digital infrastructure and business operations in the years ahead.