This article first appeared in Digital Edge, The Edge Malaysia Weekly on July 8, 2024 - July 14, 2024

Malaysia is at a crossroads in the face of accelerating digital transformation. The push to a fully digital economy could bring enormous economic gains. However, progress could be hindered by pronounced cybersecurity risks.

A growing digital ecosystem requires a robust defence mechanism underpinned by a highly skilled cybersecurity workforce. Strategic initiatives aim to cultivate a strong cybersecurity ecosystem that can respond to the complexities of modern cyberthreats.

Yet a stark talent gap exists. With only 15,248 workers identified as cybersecurity experts in the country, a 2023 study by The Department of Skills, The Centre for Instructor and Advanced Skill Training (CIAST) and Cybersecurity Malaysia forecast that Malaysia would need 27,000 cybersecurity knowledge workers by end-2025. That is a shortfall of 12,000 cybersecurity professionals. To address this issue, the Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy (MCSS) aims to train and certify 20,000 cybersecurity professionals by 2025.

To underscore why this is an urgent need, only 2% of local entities have obtained a “Mature” rating in cybersecurity readiness. This gross undervaluation reflects the country’s lack of ability to mitigate cyberthreats.

At the public level, Malaysia is seeking to address the issue by upskilling professionals and training fresh graduates, certifying cybersecurity professionals to ensure they meet international standards and are equipped to handle the complex challenges in the field and with a continuing education training programme on a platform provided by Cybersecurity Malaysia.

Holistically addressing the issues will take a mix of public and private partnerships. It will also take an approach that embraces diversity. Today, men hold 75% of the jobs in cybersecurity, but contrary to common assumptions, there is significant awareness of and interest in cybersecurity among women.

Cybersecurity vendors like Group-IB are taking it upon themselves to help implement strategies — a blend of capital investment, educational programmes and strategic partnerships — to fortify Malaysia’s cybersecurity framework.

For example, Group-IB has invested in providing students at HELP University with access to its industry leading Unified Risk Platform. The belief is that infusing advanced technology into the educational syllabus will ensure that graduates are conversant and proficient in handling contemporary cyberthreats.

Along with supplying students with access to state-of-the-art tools, Group-IB offers mentorship to students from some of the best global experts in cybersecurity. These professionals are involved in curriculum design and delivery, aligning their training with real-world demands as experienced in industry. This approach bridges theory and practice, a critical element in preparing work-ready graduates.

Central to the strategy is the establishment of strategic relationships. In this instance, Group-IB is partnering with HELP University in Malaysia to create a curriculum responsive to the dynamic nature of the cybersecurity landscape and to ensure that students are prepared with a current and comprehensive education.

Of the numerous benefits that can arise from prioritising education in a modern, practical and applicable sense, some key benefits may include job readiness, job creation and enhanced national security.

By directly embedding relevant practical skills and up-to-date knowledge into the curriculum, the programmes guarantee that graduates are well equipped to work on cybersecurity challenges as soon as they start work. They will be competent at addressing some of the cybersecurity challenges governments and industries face today.

Addressing the talent shortage will support Malaysia’s broader economic strategy, ensuring that the digital economy can grow without being undermined by cyberthreats. Aligning education with economic requirements could spur job creation in the technology sector, boosting the national economy.

Moreover, a capable and well-prepared cybersecurity workforce is the cornerstone of national security. Educational efforts help reduce vulnerability to cyberattacks, making Malaysia’s digital infrastructure stable and secure.

The way forward requires persistent efforts from both the government and private sector. Public policies should encourage and facilitate such partnerships. At the same time, private enterprises should follow Group-IB’s lead in making such strategic investments.

Developing skilled cybersecurity talent is imperative to position Malaysia as a digital leader. It will ensure the country’s resilient and prosperous future in the digital era.

Dmitry Volkov is CEO of Group-IB, a cybersecurity firm that provides technologies to investigate, prevent and fight digital crime

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