KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 November 2025 – Malaysian businesses are rapidly adopting AI and data analytics, but weak cybersecurity strategies are leaving them exposed to growing digital threats, according to CPA Australia’s latest Business Technology Survey.
While 87 per cent of businesses use data analytics and visualisation tools and 85 per cent have adopted AI, only 18 per cent have fully embedded cybersecurity into their operational strategy, well below the survey average of 28 per cent.
Of concern, 17 per cent of Malaysian businesses react to cyber threats only as they occur, and 19 per cent are unaware or unsure how cybersecurity is managed by their employer.
“With AI reshaping the business landscape, businesses must embed clear processes to protect their digital assets into their core business strategy,” Priya Terumalay, CPA Australia’s Regional Head for Southeast Asia, said.
“Structured prevention and detailed oversight are critical as AI-generated scams, deepfake impersonations and highly targeted phishing attacks become more prevalent.”
Despite strong uptake of AI tools, deep integration into business operations remains low at just 11 per cent, compared with the survey average of 16 per cent. Most businesses use AI tools occasionally and rely on readily available tools such as ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot, or built-in AI assistants.
Those businesses using AI find it is already delivering benefits, especially increased productivity, improved employee experience -– such as reducing routine tasks and enabling focus on strategic priorities -– and improved accuracy and efficiency of repetitive tasks.
Survey respondents cited high implementation costs, limited technology literacy within boards and senior management and tech talent shortages as key barriers to technology adoption.
“Malaysian businesses should prioritise strengthening the technology capabilities of senior leadership. While our survey shows that Malaysia is not far behind leading countries in digital adoption, without a clearer tone at the top, the nation could fall further behind regional and global competitors in digital maturity,” Priya said.
The Malaysian government is committed to positioning the country as an AI-driven economy, with the AI Technology Action Plan 2026-2030 set to be tabled in Parliament in December.
Against this backdrop, Priya emphasised: “The growing maturity of technologies such as AI is accelerating business transformation. AI tools are streamlining repetitive tasks and boosting productivity across organisations.
“Though the potential of AI is immense, it is not a substitute for human ingenuity. As adoption increases, businesses must strike a balance between leveraging technological advancements while preserving and making better use of human expertise.
“As AI reshapes various industries and tasks, its true impact is yet to be determined, with the possibilities, risks, challenges and opportunities still being debated and discovered.”
About the survey
CPA Australia’s 5th annual Business Technology Survey was conducted between July and September 2025. It explores business technology trends across various sectors, business sizes and markets. The survey received responses from 1,117 accounting and finance professionals working in different markets, including Australia, Mainland China, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore. 44 per cent of respondents worked in companies with 500 or more employees, 29 per cent in companies with 50 to 499 employees and 28 per cent in companies with fewer than 50 employees
Hashtag: #BusinessTehnology #CPAAustralia #MalaysiaBusinesses
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
CPA Australia is one of the world’s largest professional accounting bodies, with more than 175,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 21,000 members in Southeast Asia where CPA Australia has been involved for over 70 years. With offices in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam, we are the largest Australian accounting body in the region providing education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on issues affecting the accounting profession and the public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at
Key takeaways:Pavan Rathnayake is a Sri Lankan international cricketer who helped keep his team's ODI…
Key takeaways:The cited ICC headline confirms that Nepal will host UAE and Oman in CWC…
Key takeaways:Kusal Mendis captained Sri Lanka's record 430-run ODI chase against England in a tri-series…
Key takeaways:Kamindu Mendis is a Sri Lankan left-handed batting all-rounder who appears in dedicated Cricbuzz…
Key takeaways:Moonrise times vary by 30 to 70 minutes each day across India due to…
Key takeaways:The CBSE 2027 exam timetable PDF for Class 10 and Class 12 is expected…