IDC analysts note that key transformative steps are being taken by the Malaysian Government and 2012 will witness the emergence of disruptive IT technologies becoming mainstream and playing a critical role in the country’s development.

"ICT still presents itself as a compelling platform for many Malaysian enterprises wanting to pursue a potential cost-beneficial delivery model of products and services. The smokescreen on the exact role ICT will play in the future of the Malaysian economy will blow over in 2012, and IDC expects pockets of opportunities to emerge for both local and foreign organisations and this will shape the future of ICT,” says Sudev Bangah, senior research manager, IDC Asia/Pacific.

IDC has predicted the technologies that will have the biggest commercial impact on the Malaysian ICT market will include cloud computing, smart devices and mobile commerce. Themes such as cost reduction and finding talent will be of higher importance to organisations.

Malaysia's economic growth is expected to remain cautiously optimistic, with IT spending forecasted to reach US$8.2bn  at the end of 2012, representing a year-on-year growth of 10.1 per cent.

"2012 has been heralded as a year of opportunity as well as uncertainty, causing many businesses to remain vigilant about the ever evolving landscape. While domestic consumption is expected to grow and foreign investments are poised to continue, this could change in a blink if the right chest pieces are not reserved for future movements,” Bangah cautions.