KUCHING – Cybersecurity is currently one of the hottest topics within the industry with most things connected and accessible online that opens new opportunities for attackers to launch their attacks. These attackers are interested in our data as data is the new commodity today. As a result, there are huge demands for cybersecurity professionals to develop and administrate security solutions against cyber threats.
With the current COVID-19 pandemic, many businesses and operations are forced to go online and employees are working from home. Such a situation is conducive for the attackers as most homes are ill-prepared against cyber threats. It is no surprise that cyber threats surge during this time. Thus, the need for cybersecurity continues to increase, and every sector needs cybersecurity solution. The job is in high demand and employment rate for cybersecurity professionals remains high.
Swinburne Sarawak provides the most comprehensive cybersecurity courses through its bachelor’s degree programme in computer science, master’s degree programme in information technology, as well as its upcoming diploma programme in computer science, all majoring in cybersecurity.
According to Swinburne’s Head School of Information and Communication Technologies Professor Patrick Then, Swinburne Sarawak is committed to provide quality education in cybersecurity through its state-of-the-art cybersecurity laboratory to ensure its students are exposed to the real-world application which prepares them to be industry-ready. The university not only equip students with academic qualification but also professional qualification in cybersecurity.
Recently, Swinburne Sarawak conducted a webinar on cybersecurity with invited speakers Azurah binti Ibrahim, Manager (Capacity & Capability Development) of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), and Leong Wei Khuan, Senior Manager (Solutioning & Consultancy) of Tecforte Sdn. Bhd. During the webinar, Azurah spoke about the cybersecurity landscape and its potential career growth, as well as shared success stories on the cybersecurity programme by MDEC. Leong, on the other hand, talked about her industry experience and effort in growing and educating the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. She also shared some tips and guides for those who are interested to pursue a career in cybersecurity.
Meanwhile, Swinburne’s lecturer Dr Kelvin Yong Sheng Chek gave an overview of the field and how one can join the industry. Dr Yong has a certification in CompTIA Security+, and an instructor for the Cisco CCNA Cybersecurity Operation and ELITE Security Operating Centre platform. He is currently teaching cybersecurity units such as eForensic Fundamentals and Network Security and Resilience.
Commenting on the cybersecurity programmes at Swinburne Sarawak, Dr Yong said it is in line with the skills and knowledge required by the industries through close engagement with leading cybersecurity solution providers such as Tecforte and lead agency such as MDEC. He added that the programmes prepare students towards professional certifications such as those by Tecforte and Cisco.
The university is currently offering the Start With Zero Fees Programme to new commencing students. The exclusive programme is applicable for October 2020 intake only and entitles students to a two-week free trial classes at Swinburne’s Sarawak campus where students have the opportunity to adapt and experience the university’s teaching and learning style. Classes for Foundation and Degree programmes commence on 5 October and 12 October respectively.
For new commencing students, the course delivery mode will be blended learning, a combination of both online and face to face learning. However, students also have the option to study fully online if they wish to do so. For details on courses, scholarships, application and other related matters, email to study@swinburne.edu.my.
For more information about Swinburne, visit www.swinburne.edu.my or its Facebook page (@swinburnesarawak), Instagram (@swinburnesarawak), Twitter (@Swinburne_Swk) or YouTube channel (Swinburne Sarawak).