CyberSecurity Malaysia and University Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate in cybersecurity development especially in cloud computing, Industry 4.0 and Global Accredited Cybersecurity Education (ACE).
The ceremony took place at Menara Cyber Axis, Cyberjaya and was attended by YBhg. Dato’ Ts. Dr Haji Amirudin Abdul Wahab, Chief Executive Officer, CyberSecurity Malaysia and the Vice-Chancellor of University Malaysia Terengganu.
In line with Industry 4.0, cloud computing has dominated the digital economy market as well as the industry; various smart devices are connected directly with cloud storage via the internet. However, exposure to various cyber threats will continue to persist if technology advances and Industry 4.0 are abused.
The education industry also uses cloud computing widely for learning, teaching and research purposes. In addition, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) also emphasizes the involvement of industry in teaching and learning, especially in designing industry-focused syllabus and sharing of experiences to students. This collaboration also provides opportunities for staff and students to obtain professional certification from the industry.
In addition, in the field of research, UMT researchers can also apply for matching grants with CyberSecurity Malaysia for the benefit of both parties. Hence, proactive measures are required to ensure cloud computing security is applied in various industries, including the education sector.
The ability to securely connect to cloud systems is an important element within a safe and supportive learning environment. It is important that institutions of higher learning such as UMT, where students are increasingly learning on digital formats, faculty, staff, and visitors constantly access and share information online, and more infrastructure and facility functions are being managed on the cloud.
CyberSecurity Malaysia receives various incidents related to cybersecurity. These incidents are divided into two categories namely the technical incidents and content related incidents, where CyberSecurity Malaysia also assists law enforcement agencies in high profile cases. The collaboration between CyberSecurity Malaysia and UMT is conducted at the right time and moment.
This MoU will see the collaboration between UMT representing the academia and CyberSecurity Malaysia representing the industry.
Moreover, UMT is very active in strengthening cooperation among industry partners through various platforms such as the industry in teaching and learning, development and innovation, consultation and many other activities.
The science transfer element is crucial to accelerate the creation of innovation through research and development. This has been highlighted as the seventh shift (Innovation Ecosystem) in the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025.
UMT academicians have also been recognized as experts in their respective fields with grant funding obtained from various agencies and their contributions to industry and society are critical to global sustainability. Hence, cooperation with industry partners in the area of cybersecurity is timely in line with current world developments”.
Through this collaboration, both parties have agreed to conduct research, development, testing, auditing, training and awareness programs. Additionally, this collaboration also includes the implementation of Global Accredited Cybersecurity Education (ACE) and Competency Training.
In line with these objectives, both parties have agreed to develop a focused collaboration covering the following activities:
- Preparation of cloud storage platforms, cybersecurity advisory services and cybersecurity assessment on secure cloud computing infrastructure and applications by CyberSecurity Malaysia;
- Research and development and safety assessments related to Industrial Technology 4.0 jointly;
- Cybersecurity awareness program by CyberSecurity Malaysia;
- Syllabuses and education using e-learning systems in conjunction with ACE Global schemes and joint competency training;
- Co-publication – academic papers;
- Industrial training for postgraduate or master’s students or sabbatical leave programs for teachers of University of Malaysia, Terengganu;
- CyberSecurity Malaysia Personnel as an additional professor, additional lecturer or industry advisory panel to the University of Malaysia, Terengganu.