Sarawak cannot afford to be left behind in terms of digital technology adoption and digital economic growth, stated Sarawak’s Chief Minister, Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Abang Openg.

In fact, he also believed that the state could be on the very par with developed countries if it continues to strive on its digitalisation journey, which saw the world experiencing more intricate and complex technological advancements. The Premier of Sarawak stressed that the only choice for Sarawak now is to push ahead in new research areas or risk falling behind, being merely a follower that is not able to bring much progress to Malaysia and its citizens.

Thus, it is no surprise that in 2024, Sarawak is on a dynamic trajectory towards digital transformation. However, as industries in the Bornean state embrace the potential of the cloud and embark on digitalisation initiatives, the need for robust cybersecurity measures becomes paramount. Against this backdrop, bolstering Sarawak's cyber resilience through a proactive approach to cloud security is a top priority.

Building a Secure Cloud Ecosystem in Sarawak

Sarawak's strategic focus on digitalisation hinges on the effective utilisation of cloud technologies. Cloud computing offers unparalleled scalability, agility, and cost-efficiency, making it the bedrock of modern business operations. However, the inherent interconnectedness of the cloud environment also introduces new security challenges.

By prioritising cloud security, Sarawak can unlock the full potential of digital transformation while mitigating the associated risks. By embracing a proactive approach, Sarawak can build a secure and resilient cloud ecosystem that fosters innovation, attracts investment, and paves the way for a prosperous digital future.

However, establishing a secure cloud ecosystem in Sarawak is not that easy and it necessitates a comprehensive approach that addresses various layers of defence. This includes:

• Developing a Cybersecurity Framework: Establishing a clear roadmap outlining best practices and regulatory guidelines for cloud adoption is crucial. This framework ensures responsible and secure cloud usage, minimising potential vulnerabilities.

• Investing in Technology and Skills: Equipping Sarawak's workforce with the necessary skills and expertise to manage cloud security effectively is paramount. Ongoing training programs in areas like cloud security architecture, threat detection, and incident response empower individuals to become guardians of the digital landscape.

• Fostering Collaboration: By fostering collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders, and cloud service providers, a robust ecosystem for knowledge sharing and collective action against cyber threats emerges. This united front significantly strengthens Sarawak's cyber defences.

• Empowering the Public: Educating the public about cybersecurity best practices and potential threats empowers individuals to play a proactive role in safeguarding Sarawak's digital landscape. Informed citizens become active participants in building a secure digital future.

Towards a Secure and Prosperous Digital Sarawak

Cybersecurity, particularly within the realm of cloud computing, demands a holistic approach that combines technical controls, policies, and procedures to minimise the risk of successful cyber attacks.

Tenable, a leading cybersecurity company, emphasises the three key capabilities that businesses in Sarawak must have to build a robust security strategy:

• Asset Identification and Categorisation.

• Vulnerability Assessments.

• Threat Detection.

To learn how Tenable can further help your organisation build the best security strategy that you can ever imagine, click on the link below.