KUALA LUMPUR: A collaborative approach between multi-stakeholders is key to a successful national cybersecurity policy.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said such an approach would not only promote the sharing of information and knowledge, but also help instil trust.
"Trust is perhaps the most crucial element needed in the cyber environment," he said in his speech during the opening ceremony of the Cyber Defence Exhibition and Conference (CYDES) 2023 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre here today.
He said the national cybersecurity policy could be formulated and implemented with the collaboration of the government, industry, academia and civil society.
"This is also the reason why we organised CYDES 2023, which is to engage and build trust."
He said that the trust element was vital in the digital environment and that building and maintaining it was a continuous effort and a two-way street.
"We need to trust that technology providers develop and introduce technology without any hidden agenda.
"We also want the assurance that data flowing in the digital environment maintains its integrity, confidentiality and availability to the authorised users."
Fadillah also highlighted that trust in government policies and strategies was essential as digital trust was akin to trust in physical interactions between the government and stakeholders as well as inter-government agencies.
He also said that the conference's theme of "Building Cyber Resilience: Safeguarding the Digital Future" was fully aligned with the principles and goals of the Madani concept in transforming Malaysia into a prosperous and developed country by embracing change, incorporating diverse perspectives and implementing substantive reforms.
"It is a fact that the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats necessitates a proactive approach in equipping ourselves with the necessary skills and knowledge.
"Capacity building in cyber security entails developing a skilled workforce, enhancing technical expertise, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness.
"It requires investments in education and training programmes that empower individuals with the ability to identify, protect, detect, respond and recover to cyber threats effectively," he said.
He added that cultivating a pool of cybersecurity professionals could strengthen defence mechanisms and create a formidable front against potential adversaries.
CYDES 2023, which begins today, ends on Wednesday.