Malaysian Teams in ACS Competition, Paving the Way for Cybersecurity Talent Growth
Four Malaysian teams excelled in the ASEAN Cyber Shield (ACS) Hacking Competition held from November 21 to 24.
The national team participated in both student and professional categories, securing the first position in both and advancing to the finals. The team “Cincai” claimed the third spot in the student category, winning a prize of $5,000 USD.
Team leader Choo Chi Siang expressed their excitement for successfully tackling challenges, especially in the demanding “Cyber Warzone: Capture The Flag Competition.” Dr. Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin, the Executive CEO of the National Cyber Security Agency, emphasized the importance of the initiative in promoting skills and talents in the field of cybersecurity.
Malaysia anticipates a need for over 25,000 cybersecurity professionals by 2025, doubling the current number of around 13,000. Participation in ACS Competition provides opportunities to acquire skills and knowledge while strengthening relationships with regional countries to address cybersecurity threats.
Dr. Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin highlighted the significance of involving young talents in the cybersecurity sector, noting the numerous opportunities and high incomes that a career in this field offers.
In addition to ACS, activities included conferences and events related to cybersecurity, including workshops for developing digital forensics skills and hackathons.
Here’s a brief overview of each:
Conferences: These are large-scale events where professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts gather to discuss and share the latest developments, research findings, and trends in cybersecurity. Conferences often feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and opportunities for networking.
Events: These can include smaller-scale gatherings, seminars, or webinars focused on specific cybersecurity topics. Events provide a more intimate setting for focused discussions and can be tailored to address particular areas of interest or concern.
Workshops for Developing Digital Forensics Skills: Digital forensics is a critical aspect of cybersecurity that involves the collection, analysis, and preservation of electronic evidence. Workshops focused on digital forensics skills development could cover topics such as evidence collection, analysis tools, and legal considerations.
Hackathons: These are hands-on events where participants collaborate intensively on cybersecurity challenges. Hackathons provide an opportunity for individuals to apply their skills in a practical setting, often in a competitive or time-limited environment. They can cover a wide range of cybersecurity aspects, from penetration testing to developing secure coding practices.
