Bridging Malaysia’s Cyber Talent Gap: Experts Chart Path Forward at CYDES 2025 Forum

 KUALA LUMPUR|| July 3, 2025: In a high-level session titled “Bridging Malaysia’s Cyber Talent Gap: Strategies for Workforce Development and Resilience,” thought leaders from the nation’s cybersecurity ecosystem convened today during the CYDES 2025 Forum to address critical challenges and opportunities in developing Malaysia’s cyber workforce.

The session, part of the Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy Forum 2025, was moderated by Prof. Madya Ts. Dr. Noor Afiza Binti Mat Razali, Director of Capacity Building & Project Management Division at the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA). She led an engaging discussion focusing on aligning talent development with emerging cyber threats and technological advancements.

Joining her on stage was Emeritus Professor Dato’ Dr. Mohamed Ridza Wahiddin FASc, ASM Fellow and expert in quantum technology, who emphasized the importance of foundational STEM education and long-term investment in R&D to nurture future talent. Mr. Sanjay Bavisi, President and CEO of the EC-Council, who shared global insights on skills gaps, credentialing, and industry-academic collaboration to fast-track skilled professionals into the workforce.

Dr. Sumitra Nair, Senior Vice President of Industry and Workforce Solutions at Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), stressed the need for inclusivity and upskilling initiatives, especially for underrepresented groups in cybersecurity. Held under the theme “Advancing Cyber Resilience,” CYDES 2025 serves as a flagship platform for dialogue between government, academia, and industry.

The session underscored the urgency of closing the talent gap, with panelists calling for strategic partnerships, policy support, and grassroots engagement to ensure Malaysia remains resilient against growing cyber threats.

Organized by NACSA and supported by the National Security Council (MKN), CYDES 2025 also featured booths, workshops, and other sessions aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s cyber ecosystem under the broader Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy 2025.