Purpose: This study investigates the level and correlation between talent management and teacher personal qualities among MICSS (Malaysian Independent Chinese Secondary School) teachers by integrating the talent management model proposed by Davies and Davies (2011) and the Big Five Structure established by Lewis R. Goldberg (1992). Design/methodology/approach: The researcher conducted quantitative research methods in this study, collecting numerical data through the use of questionnaires and utilizing the stratified random sampling technique. The sample consisted of 357 Malaysian teachers who are employed by MICSS throughout the whole Malaysian context. Findings: In essence, the survey revealed a significant degree of proficiency in talent management and teacher personal qualities among teachers. In addition, this study also revealed a moderate correlation between talent management and the personal traits of teachers across MICSS teachers in Malaysia. Research limitations/implications: Limiting the investigation solely to MICSS is a noteworthy limitation. The examination also utilizes AMOS structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis, and it may be considered a restriction of this research that quantitative survey research is employed. Practical implications: Academic establishments and universities that nurture prospective educators should incorporate talent management strategies and the personal qualities of teachers into the modules of teacher training to ensure that these individuals are not only adequately prepared but also assured of their ability to execute all duties assigned to them in a professional manner. Originality/value: This research is notably innovative in the context of the Malaysian MICSS, where little evidence exists regarding talent management and teacher personality traits in education. This study, to the best of our knowledge, is the first attempt to investigate the practices and correlation between talent management and teacher personality traits in the entire Malaysian context. The research focuses on the practices of talent management towards MICSS teachers in Malaysia as well as the personal qualities of MICSS teachers.