World-class cybersecurity centre opens in Kuala Lumpur

BlackBerry Limited, in collaboration with the Malaysian government, officially inaugurated a world-class Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (CCoE) in Kuala Lumpur.

The ceremony was officiated by prominent figures, including Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Mary Ng, and BlackBerry CEO John Giamatteo.

Equipping the region for enhanced cybersecurity

The CCoE aims to deliver exceptional cybersecurity training and intelligence to Malaysia and its regional partners.

This initiative will bolster their capacity to prevent, deter, and respond to cyber threats plaguing governments and organisations across the Indo-Pacific region.

BlackBerry also introduced its new Cybersecurity Curriculum, available for the first time through the CCoE.

This program offers a diverse range of globally recognised courses and certifications, fostering a skilled cybersecurity workforce within Malaysia and the wider region.

These programs aim to address the reported shortage of approximately 12,000 cybersecurity professionals in Malaysia and provide career advancement opportunities for individuals across the region.

The launch of both the CCoE and the Cybersecurity Curriculum marks a major step forward in the landmark agreement signed by the Malaysian government and BlackBerry in November 2023.

PM emphasises international collaboration

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Anwar highlighted the CCoE’s potential to transcend a training facility.

He envisioned it as an international hub for tackling emerging cyber threats.

He proposed collaboration between Malaysian and Canadian universities, research institutions, and skilled professionals to share knowledge, threat intelligence, and jointly develop methods for strengthening national and regional cyber resilience.

The CCoE will offer Malaysians and regional participants increased networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

The curriculum encompasses a broad range of topics, from cybersecurity fundamentals to leadership and technical expertise.

The CCoE provides training courses on BlackBerry® cybersecurity products and services, covering areas like AI and Machine Learning.

Additionally, it offers highly specialised courses delivered by renowned institutions like the SANS Institute and Canada’s Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst.

Scholarship opportunities exist specifically for women in cybersecurity, with plans to further integrate the CCoE’s programs with existing university curriculums.

Mary Ng, Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, applauded the initiative’s contribution to regional cybersecurity.

She highlighted how Canada’s expertise in this area is aiding the creation of a safer cyberspace in Malaysia.

Ng positioned today’s announcement as a prime example of how Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy is actively supporting efforts to mitigate security threats across the region.

John Giamatteo, CEO of BlackBerry, concluded by emphasising the need for a collective effort to build resilience against cyberattacks.

He positioned the CCoE as a testament to the effectiveness of collaboration between nations and technology leaders in addressing the dual challenges of cybercrime and workforce skills shortages.

He expressed gratitude to the Malaysian and Canadian governments, alongside industry partners, for their participation in launching this world-class facility and the accompanying BlackBerry Cybersecurity Curriculum.