UKM and BlackBerry announces Cyber Pathways, new professional cybersecurity certification

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia and BlackBerry have teamed up to launch Cyber Pathways, a new professional cybersecurity certification programme aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s pipeline of job-ready cyber talent. The launch marks the first major milestone under a multi-year collaboration between UKM and BlackBerry, which was established to help improve cyber resilience across ASEAN.

Announced during a launch ceremony attended by BlackBerry CEO John Giamatteo and UKM Vice-Chancellor Prof Dato Dr Sufian Jusoh, the programme introduces a 24-week cybersecurity certification course with a stackable three-tier structure. The tiers consist of Cyber Protection, Cyber Management and Cyber Security, designed to prepare participants against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats while helping to address the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals in Malaysia’s digital economy.

Cyber Pathways is targeted at recent graduates as well as working professionals looking to transition into the cybersecurity industry. Participants are expected to gain industry-recognised certifications, hands-on practical competencies, and exposure to real-world cybersecurity requirements.

“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,” – Prof Dato Dr Sufian, UKM Vice-Chancellor

BlackBerry CEO John Giamatteo meanwhile added that with ASEAN requires a future workforce capable of defending against evolving cyber threats, making collaborations between universities and industry increasingly important, and that they are proud to work with UKM on Cyber Pathways.

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