iHack 2024 and Siber Siaga 2024: Malaysia Takes Strides in Cybersecurity Education and Awareness

Kuala Lumpur, July 3, 2024 – In response to the escalating threat of cybercrimes, Malaysian institutions are stepping up efforts to educate and prepare students in cybersecurity and digital forensics. Recognizing the critical need for enhanced cyber resilience in the face of global advancements, Kolej Pengajian Pengkomputeran, Informatik dan Matematik (KPPIM) at Universiti Teknologi MARA, in collaboration with the Malaysian Armed Forces’ Defense Cyber and Electromagnetic Division (BSEP), has announced the iHack 2024 and Siber Siaga 2024 initiatives.

Supported by the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA), CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM), and sponsored by Telekom Malaysia ™, iHack 2024 is slated to take place from August 6th to 8th, 2024. This biennial event, renowned since its inception in 2004, will gather university students nationwide for an intensive Cyber Physical Attack Capture The Flag (CTF) competition. Participants will navigate real-world cybersecurity challenges, enhancing their practical skills in a simulated environment.

“We aim to empower the next generation of cybersecurity professionals through iHack 2024,” remarked Ts. Dr. Mohsen Mohamad Hata, Director of iHack 2024. “With a focus on Cyber Physical Attack CTF, participants will apply their knowledge in hacking and defense strategies, fostering innovation and preparedness against evolving threats.”

The competition features three main programs: Cybersecurity training exclusively for internal participants, an online Capture The Flag preliminary round, and the Grand Finale Hacking and Defense Competition. Telekom Malaysia has generously sponsored the event, offering substantial prizes including cash and companion gifts, to winners. Additionally, the champion of the Hacking and Defense Competition will be sent to Bangkok for the ASEAN Cyber Sea Games 2024.

Simultaneously, Siber Siaga 2024 will unfold at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, offering forums, workshops, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. This flagship event anticipates participation from global cybersecurity leaders, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among industry experts.

“As cybersecurity threats grow in complexity, Siber Siaga 2024 provides a platform for experts to converge and strategize,” stated Leftenan Kolonel Ts. Erman Shah bin Mohd Khafe, Director of Siber Siaga 2024 from BSEP. “Participants can expect enriching engagements aimed at fortifying our cyber defenses and advancing Malaysia’s cyber resilience agenda.”

For more information about iHack 2024, visit the official social media channels: TikTok @ihackuitm2024, Instagram @uitm_ihack, and Facebook @IHack Uitm 2024. Details about Siber Siaga 2024 can be found on Instagram @sibersiaga and Facebook @siber siaga.

With these initiatives, Malaysia underscores its commitment to cultivating a knowledgeable and ICT-savvy society adept at navigating the challenges of cybersecurity in an interconnected world.