Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and BlackBerry have launched Cyber Pathways, a professional cybersecurity certification programme aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s pipeline of cybersecurity talent.
The programme, unveiled at a ceremony in Bangi on May 21, marks the first major initiative under a multi-year agreement between UKM and BlackBerry focused on enhancing cyber resilience across ASEAN. The launch was attended by UKM Vice-Chancellor Prof Dato Dr Sufian Jusoh and BlackBerry Chief Executive Officer John Giamatteo.
Cyber Pathways is structured as a 24-week programme featuring three stackable certification tiers: Cyber Protection, Cyber Management, and Cyber Security. According to the partners, the programme is designed to help address increasingly sophisticated cyber threats while preparing participants for careers in the cybersecurity sector.
The initiative is targeted at recent graduates and professionals seeking to transition into cybersecurity roles. It aims to equip participants with industry-recognised certifications, practical skills, and exposure to real-world cybersecurity challenges.
The launch comes as Malaysia continues to prioritise cybersecurity as part of its digital economy and national resilience efforts. The programme seeks to support demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals across industries and critical infrastructure sectors.
Prof Dato Dr Sufian said the collaboration reflects a commitment between academia and industry to strengthen the integration of knowledge and practical expertise.
“Aligned with the evolving digital landscape, the demand for cybersecurity talent continues to grow across the technology sector, multiple industries and critical national services.
“Cyber Pathways helps to address this gap, while giving participants opportunities to build strong professional networks and direct access to career pathways in one of Malaysia’s most critical sectors.”
Giamatteo said the initiative is intended to help develop cybersecurity talent for the region.
“ASEAN needs a skilled future workforce capable of defending against tomorrow’s threats, which is why industry-academia initiatives like BlackBerry’s collaboration with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia are so important.
“We are proud to join UKM to launch Cyber Pathways to budding students who will become this nation’s frontline of defence, protecting critical industries, infrastructure and citizens,” he said.
