PETALING JAYA, January 8 – PIKOM, the National ICT Association of Malaysia, acknowledges the recent security breach affecting the PADU platform launched by the Malaysian government. While commending the government’s initiative, PIKOM believes the vulnerabilities discovered highlight the need for a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity in critical government IT infrastructure. PIKOM applauds the objective of PADU in streamlining public service delivery and utilizing internal talent for such projects.
However, it suggests that involving external expertise, particularly in comprehensive security assessments throughout the software development lifecycle, is crucial. PIKOM recommends involving independent, industry-expert security personnel to identify vulnerabilities during development and testing phases, significantly enhancing the platform’s resilience against cyberattacks. The association urges the government to consider collaborating with the private sector to upskill public officers, especially in niche areas like cybersecurity.
Industry attachments, where public officers gain real-world experience within private companies, can enhance internal capabilities and ensure future projects prioritize robust security considerations. PIKOM remains committed to collaborating with the government and industry stakeholders to strengthen Malaysia’s overall cybersecurity posture. The association emphasizes a collaborative approach, including leveraging independent expertise, promoting knowledge sharing, and fostering upskilling initiatives to build a more secure and robust digital infrastructure for the nation.
