Assoc Prof Siti Hajar says cyber fraud remains the most reported issue, followed by system and data intrusions.
THE setting up of Malaysia Cyber Security Academy is expected to significantly enhance the country’s cybersecurity readiness by addressing the shortage of skilled professionals in the field.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Faculty of Computing’s Assoc Prof Dr Siti Hajar Othman said the academy would focus on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) by offering courses in crucial areas such as incident response, governance and digital forensics.
She added that these capacity- building initiatives aimed to strengthen Malaysia’s defence against cyberattacks by fostering a proactive response to security incidents.
“In 2023, cyber fraud remained the most reported issue to Cybersecurity Malaysia (CSM), followed by system and data intrusions.
“We hope the academy will help encourage continuous learning and improvement in cybersecurity practices, which is a necessary approach as cyber threats continue to grow,” she said when contacted.
On Sept 24, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi was reported saying that the government had approved the formation of a new cybersecurity academy to be managed by CSM in collaboration with other TVET institutions.
Assoc Prof Siti Hajar said the academy would help improve Malaysia’s preparedness for increasingly complex cyber threats and develop experts capable of safeguarding the nation’s digital infrastructure.
She said it could also serve as an alternative platform alongside universities to cultivate local cybersecurity talent.
The academy is expected to play a role not just nationally but also regionally, with the potential to establish Malaysia as a centre of excellence in cybersecurity in South-East Asia.
“By adhering to global standards and promoting international collaboration, we can contribute to global cybersecurity efforts, attract foreign investments and enhance regional cooperation in tackling cyber threats,” she said.
She also suggested the academy focus on TVET students before expanding to other groups.
“Programmes should be designed to cater to various skill levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
“It should include customised training for civil servants, industry leaders and academic institutions.
“This inclusive approach aims to support upskilling, reskilling, and lifelong learning in cybersecurity.”
The academy should also plan to collaborate with local and international firms to provide job placements and internships, she said.
“Partnerships with companies such as Telekom Malaysia could offer hands-on experience to students.
“Additionally, local startups could benefit from talent development programmes, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical application.”
To ensure global competitiveness, Assoc Prof Siti Hajar emphasised the need for the academy’s programmes to align with international certification standards, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CompTIA Security+.
The academy should also focus on raising cybersecurity awareness among the public and corporate sectors, she said.
“They could host workshops, webinars and outreach programmes to educate participants on common threats like phishing and ransomware.
“Specialised programmes for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and large corporations will aim to strengthen organisational cybersecurity practices,” she added.
She also called for government scholarships and funding to support students interested in the academy’s programmes.
“Financial assistance could enable more individuals to access high-quality cybersecurity training, fostering innovations in the field and helping Malaysia meet its growing workforce needs,” she said.
