Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) continues to lead the way in cybersecurity education, earning the Cyber Security Innovation (Education) of the Year award from Cybersecurity Malaysia.

This recognition, presented at the Malaysia Cyber Security Awards and Gala Dinner 2024, underscores APU’s commitment to developing cutting-edge training environments for future cybersecurity professionals beyond the ASEAN region.

Datuk Parmjit Singh, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the APIIT Education Group and APU, proudly accepted the award from Rear Admiral Dato’ Pahlawan Mohd Fadzli Kamal Bin Mohd Mohaldin, Director General, Defence Cyber and Electromagnetic Division, Ministry of Defence Malaysia, during the event held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on August 6th, 2024.

Reflecting on the achievement, Datuk Parmjit Singh enthused, “This accolade from Cybersecurity Malaysia is a testament to APU’s relentless pursuit of excellence in cybersecurity education. It affirms our commitment to equipping the next generation of cybersecurity experts with the skills and knowledge needed to address the complex challenges of today and tomorrow.”

APU stood out among other top institutions and organisations known for their cybersecurity programmes, including TM Technology Services, Ensign InfoSecurity, Axiata Group, and Blackberry. (Click here for the winners’ list)

APU’s recognition was largely attributed to its robust cybersecurity programmes: the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security), Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science with a specialisation in Digital Forensics, and the Master of Science in Cyber Security. These programmes, tailored to meet industry needs, played a pivotal role in the judging process.

Dr Julia Juremi, Head of the Forensics and Cyber Security Research Center (FSeC), and Professor Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer (CIEO), highlighted APU's innovative teaching methods and industry-relevant training during the application process that required heavily detailed information and they came across stringent interviews.

“We showcased our innovative teaching methods, tools, and technologies that set us apart from competitors, including the use of Cyber Range scenarios, the SOC MSSGARD SIEM solution, as well as the promotion of student involvement in real-world projects through our Cybersecurity as a Service (CaaS) team, which operates under the Forensics and Cybersecurity Research Center (FSeC),” stated Dr Julia Juremi.

APU’s state-of-the-art cybersecurity Teaching & Learning (T&L) infrastructure, combined with the expertise of certified academic staff, further solidified its position as a leader in the field. The university's T&L facilities include the Cyber Range, a comprehensive Cyber Threats Simulation and Response Centre; the Security Operations Centre (SOC), a hands-on training ground for cybersecurity operations; the Networking Academy, supported by global technology leader CISCO; and the Forensics and Cyber Security Research Center (FSeC), which focuses on collaborative industry research.

APU’s curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest cybersecurity trends and threat landscapes, ensuring that students receive the most current and relevant education. The university also maintains strong partnerships with international cybersecurity organisations, enhancing the global relevance and opportunities for its students.

“We consistently receive accreditation and acknowledgement for our curriculum from leading industry bodies. Additionally, we encourage our students to participate in prestigious competitions, which further validate the quality and impact of APU’s cybersecurity programmes. This is reflected in our graduates’ high employment rates, career progression, and achievements in cybersecurity-related projects. The success of APU’s alumni and the consistent recognition from the industry further affirm the excellence of our programmes,” stated Dr Julia.

According to Prof Vinesh, as APU is already renowned for receiving Gold Awards for Best Asia Cybersecurity Education Provider from 2019 to 2024, as endorsed by Cybersecurity Insiders for the Cybersecurity Excellence Awards, this latest recognition from Cybersecurity Malaysia further enhances the credibility of APU’s cybersecurity programmes. This will undoubtedly attract more students and professionals seeking premier education in the field.

“Cybersecurity Malaysia is a leading authority in e-sovereignty. Its endorsement of APU’s excellence in cybersecurity not only highlights our surpassing of rigorous standards but also amplifies our influence across the Asia-Pacific region, solidifying our role in shaping regional cybersecurity practices and policies,” remarked Prof Vinesh.

The Malaysia Cyber Security Awards were part of the Cyber Digital Services, Defence, and Security Asia (CyberDSA) 2024 event, supported by the Ministry of Digital and the Ministry of Defence Malaysia. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Yang Berbahagia Tuan Fabian Bigar, Secretary General of the Ministry of Digital, along with prominent academics from APU such as Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor, and Associate Professor Dr Thang Ka Fei, Senior Head of the School of Technology.

As APU continues to build on its legacy of excellence, this latest recognition further elevates the university’s credibility in cybersecurity education, attracting a greater number of students and professionals seeking premier education in this critical field.