Penetration Testing Malaysia: VAPT & Cost

Last updated: 5 November 2026

Penetration testing in Malaysia is a controlled attack on your systems by trained testers, done to find weaknesses before real attackers do. It is often sold as VAPT, short for vulnerability assessment and penetration testing. This guide explains the types of test, what drives the cost, and what BNM expects from financial institutions.

What is penetration testing, and what is VAPT?

A vulnerability assessment uses scanning tools to list known weaknesses across your systems. A penetration test goes further. Testers try to exploit those weaknesses by hand to show what an attacker could really reach.

VAPT combines the two. The scan gives broad coverage, and the manual testing shows which findings matter most. Be careful with any quote that is only a scan renamed as a penetration test. Ask what the testers do by hand.

Types of penetration test

A web application test looks for flaws such as those in the OWASP Top 10, weak login controls and business logic errors. A network test covers firewalls, servers and internal paths an attacker could use to move around.

A cloud test checks for misconfigured storage, excessive access rights and exposed management consoles. A mobile test checks iOS and Android apps for weak data storage and insecure communication.

A red team exercise is broader. It simulates a determined attacker pursuing a set goal across several routes at once. A social engineering test checks the human side, such as phishing emails.

What a penetration test engagement looks like

The work follows a set order. First comes scoping, where you agree the systems in scope, the rules of engagement and the reporting you need. Then testers gather information about the target and try to exploit weaknesses in the agreed scope.

After testing you receive a report with an executive summary, technical findings, risk ratings and fixes. A debrief walks your technical and management teams through it. A retest then confirms that serious findings were fixed.

What affects penetration testing cost in Malaysia

There is no standard price list, and quotes vary widely. Cost mainly depends on the scope: how many applications, hosts, cloud accounts or mobile apps are included. It also depends on how deep the testing goes, the experience of the testers and how much reporting and retesting you need.

Ask each provider for a written scope that states what is tested, how long testers spend, and what the report includes. Then compare like with like. A very low quote often means less manual testing, so ask what you are getting.

What BNM RMiT requires for VAPT

Bank Negara Malaysia's Risk Management in Technology (RMiT) policy document sets specific rules for the institutions it covers. Its appendix on security controls says an institution must set up procedures for VAPT, with external testers always within scope and under oversight.

It requires a quarterly vulnerability assessment of network components that support critical systems. It also requires annual intelligence-led penetration tests on networks, critical systems and digital services, including web, mobile and external-facing applications. Testers and providers must be suitably accredited.

A penetration test is also required before new systems for new products or services go live. Results must be documented and escalated to senior management. RMiT also requires a red team simulation at least once every three years. For a fuller walk-through, read our BNM RMiT compliance guide.

Capital market entities have their own rule. The Securities Commission Malaysia's Guidelines on Technology Risk Management say they must run regular penetration testing, at a minimum annually and scaled to their risk. Testing is also required before deploying a new critical system or making major changes to one. It must be done by experienced and qualified professionals.

How to choose a penetration testing provider

Ask which certifications the testers hold and who will do the work. CREST, a not-for-profit body registered in the UK, accredits companies and certifies individuals, so ask whether a provider holds either. Ask for a sample report with sensitive details removed, and for references from clients of similar size. Check that the provider will agree the rules of engagement in writing before testing starts.

Primary Guard offers VAPT services in Malaysia. For continuous testing between engagements, see our breach and attack simulation service. If you want help scoping a test, request a free assessment.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a penetration test take?

It depends on the scope. Testing a single web application is usually shorter than testing a large network or running a red team exercise. Agree a timeline with the provider during scoping, and include the time for reporting and retesting.

Is a vulnerability scan the same as a penetration test?

No. A scan is automated and lists possible weaknesses. A penetration test adds manual testing to show what can actually be exploited. A scan can support a penetration test, but it should not replace one.

Do I need a penetration test if I am not a bank?

RMiT and the Securities Commission guidelines apply only to the institutions they cover. Other organisations should still test after major changes and before launching new systems, and should check any contract, audit or standard they follow. Your compliance team can confirm what applies to you.

Key takeaway

Choose a penetration test on its scope and depth, not on the lowest quote. Know the difference between a scan and manual testing, and test before launching new systems. If you are a financial institution, follow the RMiT schedule.

Sources

BNM RMiT policy, Sep 2026 | SC Technology Risk Guidelines, Aug 2024 | CREST accreditation

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This article is provided for general information and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Organisations should refer to the current BNM RMiT policy document and the Securities Commission guidelines, and consult qualified advisers on their specific obligations.