Data Scientist vs Software Engineer salary
In Malaysia, a data scientist earns about 11% more than a software engineer — $58,970 vs $53,319 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is MYR). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Technology
Data Scientist$58,970/yr
- Monthly
- $4,914
- Hourly
- $28
- Range
- $36,684–$86,220
- 10-yr outlook
- +35%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Data Scientist | Software Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $36,684 | $34,129 |
| 25th | $47,815 | $43,712 |
| Median | $58,970 | $53,319 |
| 75th | $72,583 | $65,039 |
| Senior (90th) | $86,220 | $76,784 |
National Malaysia figures in MYR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Technology comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a data scientist or software engineer earn more in Malaysia?
- A data scientist earns more, at about RM 240,000 per year vs RM 217,000 for a software engineer — roughly 11% (RM 23,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Malaysia?
- A data scientist typically earns RM 149,300–RM 350,900, while a software engineer earns RM 138,900–RM 312,500 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Malaysia?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a data scientist averages about RM 20,000 and a software engineer about RM 18,100.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Malaysia, a data scientist earns about RM 149,300 while a software engineer earns about RM 138,900 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Malaysia, a data scientist earns about RM 350,900 while a software engineer earns about RM 312,500 per year.
- Are data scientist and software engineer similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Technology category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.