Choosing between a career as an electrician or in information technology (IT) is a common dilemma in Sabah, especially for young job seekers and career switchers. While both fields offer stable employment, their earning potential differs depending on skill level, experience and career progression.
Electrician income in Sabah
Electricians in Sabah generally earn steady, skills-based incomes. Entry-level electricians, including fresh technical graduates or apprentices, typically earn between RM1,700 and RM2,500 per month, depending on employer and project type. Those with several years of experience, particularly in commercial or construction projects, commonly earn around RM2,800 to RM3,900 per month.
Electricians working in industrial facilities, power plants or specialised electrical maintenance can earn higher wages, sometimes exceeding RM5,000 per month, especially when overtime, site allowances or contract-based work is included. However, these higher-paying roles are less common and often require certification, safety training and experience with high-voltage systems.
IT income in Sabah
The IT sector in Sabah covers a wide range of roles, from basic technical support to software development and IT management.
Entry-level positions such as IT technicians or IT support staff usually earn between RM1,700 and RM3,300 per month, similar to electricians at the start of their careers. As professionals gain experience, salaries rise more noticeably. Mid-level IT support engineers or junior developers often earn around RM2,800 to RM4,500 per month.
At the higher end, experienced software developers, systems engineers and IT executives can earn RM5,000 to RM7,000 or more per month, particularly if they manage systems, teams or enterprise-level infrastructure. Some IT professionals based in Sabah also work remotely for companies outside the state, significantly increasing their earning potential without relocating.
Comparing earning potential
At entry level, electricians and IT professionals in Sabah earn comparable salaries. However, long-term earning growth tends to differ:
- Electricians enjoy stable demand and predictable income growth, with earnings rising gradually as experience and certifications accumulate.
- IT professionals often experience faster income growth, especially in specialised fields such as software development, cybersecurity or systems administration.
While electricians can reach high income levels through industrial or contract work, IT careers generally offer higher salary ceilings over time.
Job stability and lifestyle factors
Electrician work is typically site-based and physically demanding, involving construction, maintenance and shift work. IT roles, by contrast, often offer office-based or remote working environments, flexible hours and opportunities to work with clients outside Sabah.
Demand for electricians remains strong due to ongoing infrastructure development, while IT demand fluctuates depending on business investment and digital adoption. However, digitalisation across industries continues to support long-term IT job growth.
Final thoughts
In Sabah, electricians and entry-level IT workers earn similar starting salaries, making both paths viable for those entering the workforce. Over the long term, IT careers generally pay more, particularly for those who develop specialised skills or advance into senior roles. Electrician work remains a reliable and respected profession, offering solid income and consistent demand, but for those focused on maximum earning potential, IT provides broader opportunities for higher pay growth.
By Albert Lee