PIKOM, MDEC and Cybersecurity Malaysia join hands to enhance data security 

• Vital for companies to address cybersecurity in digital transformation
• Assist companies in safeguarding their data, build trust with customers

The National Tech Association of Malaysia (Pikom), in collaboration with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and CyberSecurity Malaysia, has unveiled the Malaysia Data Security Governance Reference Book: Unleashing the Value of Reliable Data at the Cyber Digital Services, Defence & Security Asia (CyberDSA). This initiative aims to enhance Malaysia’s data security governance maturity and efficiency.

Launched by the Minister of Communications and Digital, Fahmi Fadzil, the book offers guidelines for Malaysian organisations to safeguard their data and establish trust with customers. It covers various topics, including data sovereignty, key standards, global best practices, and recommendations for the future.

Ong Chin Seong, chairman of Pikom emphasised that the primary goal of data security governance is value creation. 

“As the organisation that represents Malaysia’s technology industry with over 1,000 active members, commanding 80% of the total tech business in the country, we recognise that data security governance maturity is essential to enhance a country's digital economy competitiveness. This reference book provides a digital trade standards system framework that can be used as a reference to help Malaysia implement international cybersecurity standards at the national level, aligning with Malaysia's specific context,” he added.

'Additionally,' he added, 'it serves as a guide to data security governance and safeguarding national data sovereignty. “I hope this book will raise awareness of the importance of data security in Malaysia. Together, we can create a more secure and trustworthy digital environment."

Amirudin Abdul Wahab, CEO of CyberSecurity Malaysia stressed the critical importance of raising awareness about data security in Malaysia. 

He said, "The Malaysia Data Security Governance Reference Book is a timely resource for organisations embarking on digital transformation and is a crucial guideline in supporting the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint."

'As a national cybersecurity specialist and technical agency,' he continued, "CyberSecurity Malaysia provides support for initiatives involving multiple stakeholders, addressing concerns and issues across various facets of the cybersecurity industry. This opens opportunities for stronger partnerships within the local and regional ICT industry, offering a competitive advantage and propelling the industry into the future."

Pikom noted that global digital transformation initiatives, whether at the government or private sector level, bring unprecedented challenges to ICT infrastructure cybersecurity. Therefore, addressing these challenges becomes increasingly crucial to protect valuable data assets and ensure high-quality data availability to the right people at the right time.

This book serves as a valuable resource for organizations seeking guidance on securing their data and institutions. For more information or to download a copy of the Reference Book, please visit www.pikom.org.my