The forecasted number of higher education researchers in Malaysia is expected to rise steadily from 88.2 thousand in 2024 to 96.19 thousand by 2028. In 2023, the actual value stood at 86.25 thousand. The year-on-year variations showcase a progressive increase of 2.34% from 2024 to 2025, 2.23% from 2025 to 2026, 2.14% from 2026 to 2027, and 2.06% from 2027 to 2028. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the five-year forecast period is approximately 2.19%.
Future trends to watch for include the impact of government policies on education funding and research grants, the influence of international collaborations and partnerships, and the adaptation to technological advancements which could further propel growth in the number of higher education researchers. Additionally, monitoring the retention rates and career development of researchers within Malaysia will be crucial for understanding long-term trends and ensuring sustainability in this sector.
