EC-Council, the organization behind the globally recognized Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential, has announced its largest portfolio expansion in 25 years. The launch introduces the Enterprise AI Credential Suite alongside the upgraded Certified CISO v4 program.

This move reflects one reality: AI is scaling faster than the workforce trained to adopt, secure, and govern it effectively.

As AI adoption accelerates globally, enterprises now require structured, role-ready pathways to maintain accountability and operational control.

Malaysia’s AI Momentum Moves from Vision to Execution

Malaysia is rapidly advancing its AI ecosystem. The launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) in late 2024 signals a coordinated push toward AI policy, innovation, and talent development.

Moreover, under the MyDIGITAL Blueprint, the digital economy already contributes over 23% of national GDP. Consequently, AI capability is no longer optional it is central to economic competitiveness.

Across finance, manufacturing, public services, and digital government initiatives, AI is moving from pilot projects into daily operations. Therefore, demand for professionals who can responsibly deploy, defend, and govern AI systems is rising sharply.

Inside the Enterprise AI Credential Suite

The new suite follows EC-Council’s proprietary Adopt. Defend. Govern. (ADG) framework, ensuring AI implementation mirrors real-world enterprise environments.

Adopt

Prepare teams to deploy AI deliberately, with readiness assessments and built-in safeguards.

Defend

Secure AI systems against emerging threats, including:

• Prompt injection
• Data poisoning
• Model exploitation
• AI supply-chain compromise

Govern

Embed accountability, risk management, and oversight into AI systems from day one.

The Four New AI Certifications Explained

1. Artificial Intelligence Essentials (AIE)

Builds foundational AI literacy and responsible usage skills across business and technical roles.

2. Certified AI Program Manager (CAIPM)

Equips professionals to translate AI strategy into structured execution. It aligns governance, delivery teams, and ROI measurement for scalable enterprise intelligence.

3. Certified Offensive AI Security Professional (COASP)

Develops advanced capabilities to test LLM vulnerabilities, simulate exploits, and harden AI infrastructure against emerging cyber threats.

4. Certified Responsible AI Governance & Ethics Professional (CRAGE)

Focuses on enterprise-scale Responsible AI, governance frameworks, and compliance with NIST and ISO standards.

Together, these certifications address the full AI lifecycle from literacy to offensive security and executive oversight.

Certified CISO v4: Leadership for AI-Driven Risk

The updated Certified CISO v4 modernizes executive cyber leadership education. As AI systems increasingly influence business operations, security leaders must manage risks tied to adaptive and autonomous technologies.

Certified CISO v4 strengthens governance strategies and prepares executives to make high-stakes decisions with clarity and accountability.

Bridging Malaysia’s AI Talent Gap

Malaysia’s constraint is no longer AI interest it is job-ready capability. Organizations need professionals who can:

• Deploy AI safely
• Protect AI systems from evolving threats
• Maintain governance and accountability at scale

With government backing and national digital ambitions aligned, certifications like EC-Council’s Enterprise AI Credential Suite provide a practical path forward.

AI transformation demands more than experimentation. It requires structured training, operational discipline, and leadership readiness.

EC-Council’s dual launch positions enterprises especially in fast-growing markets like Malaysia to scale AI confidently while safeguarding systems, data, and trust.

To explore the full training portfolio, visit EC-Council’s official AI Courses library.

Outpatient clinics across Southeast Asia are under increasing pressure from national EHR initiatives, strict data privacy laws, staffing shortages, and growing patient demand. To meet these challenges, many are embracing digital transformation.

KumoTM: A Scalable Regional Solution

Malaysia-based Kumo™ has emerged as a leading healthcare software provider in the region. Originally designed for wellness centers, the platform now serves over 2,500 clinics and 25,000 users across Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand through four product lines:

• Aoikumo™ (aesthetics & wellness)
• kumoDent™ (dental)
• kumoVet™ (veterinary)
• kumoDoc™ (primary care)

Simplifying Clinical Operations

Many clinics still rely on fragmented systems for patient records, billing, compliance, and lab coordination, leading to inefficiencies and burnout. KumoTM resolves this by offering a centralised platform for:

• Patient registration & EHR
• Claims processing & invoicing
• LHDN-compliant e-Invoicing
• Integrated apps for doctors, nurses, and patients

Boosting Interoperability and National Integration

Kumo™ enhances connectivity with public health systems by adopting:

• SNOMED CT for standardised clinical terminology
• Integration with initiatives like Indonesia’s SATUSEHAT

Third-Party Integrations and AI Capabilities

To optimise workflows, Kumo™ connects with tools like WhatsApp, Google, LINE, and Stripe, and is expanding lab integrations for direct digital test result sharing. The platform is also AI-ready, aligning with evolving healthcare policies and technologies.

Recognition and Security Commitment

Kumo™ has earned industry recognition, including:

• MD Asia Pacific ICT Award 2024
• 100 Go Digital Supporting Partner (2023 & 2024)
• Certifications: ISO/IEC 27001:2022 & SIRIM UKAS

These affirm its dedication to secure, compliant clinical operations.

Educating Future Healthcare Professionals

Kumo™ also supports healthcare education, with institutions like MAHSA University and Penang International Dental College using it in their teaching clinics, equipping students with real-world digital tools.

A Vision of Connected, Intelligent Outpatient Care

Founder Kevin Nair emphasises the company’s commitment to customer-centric innovation. “Kumo™ continues to evolve alongside our partners. Our goal is to lead with technology that simplifies, connects, and supports better care,” he said.

Looking ahead, Kumo™ aims to shape a future of interoperable, intelligent, and AI-enhanced clinical ecosystems, bridging private clinics with national healthcare infrastructures.

Malaysia’s Chamrun Digital Group made international headlines when CEO Dr. Behrang Parhizkar was named Best Speaker and honored as Outstanding AI Solution Provider at the World AI Tech Summit Dubai 2025.

Winning with Agentic AI Innovation

At the summit on November 21, Dr. Behrang presented the company’s cutting-edge Agentic AI Framework, aimed at transforming both public and private sectors. His talk, titled “Agentic AI Framework for Public Sectors”, introduced a strategic approach to AI orchestration, leveraging:

• Multi-agent systems
• Domain-specific Small Language Models (SLMs)
• Structured intelligence formats like JSON, TOON, and Verified Structured Context (VSC)

These innovations promise greater accuracy, lower costs, and enhanced AI reliability across sectors.

Real-World Impact Across Government and Industry

The framework gained strong interest, with summit organizers calling it “policy-aligned and implementation-ready.” Dr. Behrang showcased practical use cases—many already active in Malaysia—such as:

• Policy research automation
• Online scam detection
• Agricultural and food security monitoring
• Citizen service AI assistants
• Regulatory and enterprise workflow solutions

The system’s ability to save millions of work hours through automation stood out as a key benefit.

Boosting Malaysia’s Global AI Role

Chamrun Digital’s dual recognition strengthens its international presence, especially in the Middle East and ASEAN regions. The company continues to lead in areas including:

• Agentic AI development
• Public sector automation
• SME digital tools
• Agricultural intelligence systems

The summit, which brought together global AI experts and policymakers, spotlighted Chamrun’s role in shaping the future of AI governance and autonomous systems.

Learn more at www.chamrun.ai

The GBS ASEAN Summit 2025, held on 30 October under the theme “GBS 5.0: Human-Centric, AI-Driven, Impact-Focused”, outlined Malaysia’s decisive strategy. It aims to cement its role as a regional Global Business Services (GBS) hub.

Two key milestones were announced:

• The signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between GBS Malaysia and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
• The launch of the GBS Malaysia Mid-Term Report 2025

Strategic Partnership to Build a Future-Ready Talent Pipeline

The MOA with UKM aims to align academic programs with real-world industry needs in AI, digital operations, and data analytics. This collaboration bridges the gap between GBS companies and university students, ensuring a steady flow of high-skilled talent.

Prof. Alex Liew, Chairman of PIKOM, called it “a definitive blueprint for future-proofing our industry’s human capital,” emphasizing that Malaysia must shift from cost-competitiveness to a talent-led digital economy.

Mid-Term Report Highlights Malaysia’s GBS Surge

The GBS Malaysia Mid-Term Report 2025 showcases impressive growth since the strategy was launched in 2022:

• 66.8% growth in GBS companies, now totaling 749
• 13.5x increase in investments: from RM0.73B (2021) to RM9.87B (2024)
• 36,000+ high-value jobs created
• Projected RM28.14B in GBS revenue by 2025
• Ranked 3rd globally in the Global Services Location Index
• Top 3 in ASEAN for digital competitiveness, innovation, and investment confidence

According to Raymond Davadass, Research Chair of GBS Malaysia, the key to sustained success lies in “integrating technology, knowledge, and human capital into one cohesive ecosystem.”

Industry-Academia-Government Synergy Driving Results

Dr. Mandy Sim, Associate Professor at University of Nottingham Malaysia, praised the collaborative and evidence-based approach. She stated it provides a strong framework to guide Malaysia’s GBS ambitions through 2027.

GBS ASEAN Awards 2025 Celebrate Regional Excellence

The summit closed with the prestigious GBS ASEAN Awards 2025, celebrating 58 winners. Among these were 28 individuals and 30 corporations recognized for leadership and innovation across the region’s GBS ecosystem.

Anthony Raja Devadoss, Chairman of GBS Malaysia, reinforced the mission: “To position Malaysia as ASEAN’s strategic GBS hub, powered by innovation, talent, and purpose.”

The 2025 GBS ASEAN Summit signals Malaysia’s readiness to lead the next wave of digital transformation in Southeast Asia. With robust talent strategies, academic alignment, and industry growth, the nation is well on its way to becoming a global GBS powerhouse.

The Ministry of Digital, through the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), successfully concluded LEVEL UP KL 2025, Southeast Asia’s premier digital games conference, from 6 to 8 October at the Connexion Conference & Event Centre (CCEC), Bangsar South. The 11th edition of the event welcomed over 2,500 participants from more than 20 countries, including the US, UK, Japan, Brazil, and ASEAN nations.

Bringing together developers, publishers, investors, and tech leaders, LEVEL UP KL continues to position Malaysia as a rising force in the global games industry.

Celebrating Malaysian Studios on the Global Stage

The event spotlighted the international impact of Malaysian game developers, showcasing cross-border collaborations and creative excellence:

• Les’ Copaque & Streamline Studios launched Upin & Ipin Universe, blending Malaysian heritage with immersive digital storytelling.
• Passion Republic Games gained global recognition for Gigabash, first revealed at LEVEL UP KL, which featured a popular Ultraman crossover.
• Metronomik Studio, known for No Straight Roads, partnered with Japan’s Shueisha Games for No Straight Roads 2.
• Magnus Games Studio announced a new global IP, Project Survival, co-developed with Shueisha Games.

These successes highlight Malaysia’s creative edge and the strong synergy between local and international studios.

Three Days of Industry-Driven Growth

LEVEL UP KL 2025 featured a packed programme focused on business growth, networking, and innovation:

• RM150 million in export opportunities generated.
• 70 global exhibitors showcased over 40 innovative games from Southeast Asia.
• 350+ B2B meetings facilitated through the Business Connection Programme.
• SEA Game Awards 2025 honoured excellence in game development, with Troublemaker 2: Beyond Dream by Indonesia’s Gamecom Team taking the Grand Jury Award.
• Pitch Day connected indie developers with publishers and investors.

Empowering ASEAN’s Digital Future

As Malaysia approaches the conclusion of its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, LEVEL UP KL symbolises the country’s commitment to driving regional digital growth. The conference serves as a launchpad for Southeast Asia’s talent, enabling access to international markets and spotlighting the region’s creative potential.

Wawasan Open University (WOU) continues to cement its role as a leader in academia–industry collaboration with new strategic partnerships aimed at advancing Penang’s position as a regional technology hub.

In a recent signing ceremony at WOU’s main campus, the university formalised Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with three key partners — Fourier TVET Centre, MI Equipment Sdn Bhd, and 3REN Berhad. The event was led by WOU’s Chief Executive and Vice Chancellor, Prof Dr Lily Chan, and graced by Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, Chief Executive Officer of InvestPenang.

Strengthening Penang’s Tech and Talent Ecosystem

Through these partnerships, WOU expands its network within Penang’s electrical and electronics (E&E), semiconductor, automation, and medical technology sectors. The collaborations are part of WOU’s mission to develop a future-ready workforce that meets evolving industry demands.

Prof Dr Lily Chan highlighted that the initiative aligns with Penang’s vision as the “Silicon Valley of the East”, emphasising WOU’s role as a bridge between education and enterprise.

“These partnerships empower industries with advanced skills to innovate and compete globally,” she said, referencing Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy and AI Nation 2030 agenda.

Lifelong Learning Pathways for the Digital Economy

WOU’s flexible learning model ensures that professionals can upskill and reskill without leaving the workforce. This approach supports Penang’s STEM Talent Blueprint and the broader effort to future-proof local talent.

Dato’ Loo Lee Lian applauded WOU’s initiative, noting that such collaborations are vital for sustaining Penang’s competitiveness in the global advanced manufacturing and digital economy.

“WOU’s flexible, industry-aligned model ensures that employees can upgrade their skills while earning accredited qualifications — a key step in maintaining Penang’s edge as a technology hub,” she said.

Tailored Programmes for Industry 4.0 and Beyond

Each partnership brings unique educational and workforce development benefits:

WOU and Fourier TVET Centre, the world’s only City & Guilds (UK)-authorised training centre, will co-deliver a Skills Diploma in Mechatronic Technology. The programme covers:

• PLC and HMI programming
• Motion control and systems design
• Fault diagnosis and automation integration

This collaboration builds on Fourier’s proven track record in producing Chartered and Professional Engineers globally.

MI Equipment Sdn Bhd: Corporate Learning Incentives

Penang-based semiconductor leader MI Equipment will offer corporate rebates for employees pursuing WOU programmes in engineering, business, data analytics, and digital technologies.
From its 200,000 sq. ft. R&D headquarters, MI focuses on wafer fabrication, AI inspection, and smart factory automation.

Through its partnership with 3REN Berhad, WOU provides employees access to Bachelor of Technology degrees in Mechatronics and Electronics, and the Commonwealth Executive MBA.
3REN’s expertise in AI, machine learning, and Industry 5.0 automation ensures that learners gain directly applicable, high-demand skills.

All industry-focused programmes will be offered through WOU Academy, the university’s professional upskilling and talent development division. The academy delivers courses tailored to corporate training needs, leveraging WOU’s academic expertise in technology, business, and digital innovation.

Building a Future-Ready Penang

By expanding partnerships across Penang’s industrial ecosystem, Wawasan Open University reinforces its commitment to lifelong learning, digital readiness, and sustainable workforce development. These initiatives not only address immediate skills shortages but also strengthen Penang’s position in the global technology value chain.

As Penang continues to attract investment from high-tech and semiconductor industries, WOU stands ready to power the next generation of skilled professionals who will shape Malaysia’s innovation-driven future.

One of the longstanding challenges in Malaysia’s public administration is the siloed structure across ministries and departments. This fragmentation often causes inefficiencies and delays in critical decision-making processes, according to Dr Behrang Parhizkar, CEO of Chamrun Digital and Chamrun AI.

Speaking at the Malaysia Digital Expo (MDX) Summit 2025, Dr Behrang highlighted a promising solution: Agentic AI. Positioned as a “smart connector,” Agentic AI bridges isolated data systems and workflows, unifying them into a central, actionable platform. This integration allows leaders to make faster, more informed, and effective decisions.

Moving Beyond Traditional AI

Unlike traditional AI, which reacts to predefined tasks, Agentic AI operates autonomously and proactively. It anticipates needs, plans ahead, and coordinates cross-agency processes—delivering real-time, integrated solutions for government operations.

Real-World Applications Across Key Sectors

Agentic AI’s impact goes beyond theory. Here are some areas where it’s already making a difference:

• Agriculture & Food Security: By forecasting demand and supply more accurately, Agentic AI helps farmers make better decisions—potentially reducing Malaysia’s RM70 billion annual food import cost.
• Public Services: Automation of routine tasks like form validation and license reviews minimizes delays, enabling civil servants to focus on policymaking and service delivery.
• Fraud Prevention: AI-powered voice systems provide round-the-clock monitoring, instantly verifying fraud reports and alerting authorities. This is especially vital, considering the RM573 million in online fraud losses recorded in early 2025.

Building AI Leadership in Government

Chamrun Digital, in collaboration with the Public Service Department (JPA), is spearheading a six-month AI & Digital Leadership Programme. This initiative equips senior public officials with the expertise needed to embed AI into policy and practice, ensuring sustainable digital transformation.

A Strategic Shift Toward Sustainable Innovation

Dr Behrang emphasized the importance of long-term commitment:

“Malaysia cannot afford to view AI as a passing trend. With Agentic AI, we are moving beyond pilot projects to real solutions that benefit citizens.”

Chamrun Digital and Chamrun AI are now recognized as strategic industry partners to JPA and MyDIGITAL, fully aligned with the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint (MyDIGITAL) and the National AI Policy.

Picture this: walking into a store where you simply scan, tap, and go. No cashiers. No waiting. This is the vision of Morgan’s Retail, set to debut the world’s first fully automated, AI-powered concept store in Brooklyn, New York, later this year.

The store uses artificial intelligence to personalise each customer’s journey in real time. From product recommendations based on your preferences to augmented reality (AR) navigation, shopping is designed to be effortless, enjoyable, and efficient.

AI handles everything from inventory management and pricing to security and cleaning. Innovative floor sensors capture kinetic energy from every step, powering the store sustainably and supporting a Net Zero Energy footprint. Paired with a zero-inventory model, Morgan’s cuts waste, storage, and emissions, setting a new standard for eco-friendly retail.

Virtual Shopping With the CVU

Instead of physical shelves, customers explore products through the patented Customer Visualisation Unit (CVU). This digital catalogue provides instant details on ingredients, nutrition, and storage tips, helping shoppers make smarter, lifestyle-aligned decisions.

With AI guidance, customers shop independently while video analytics ensure safety. Store layouts adapt dynamically to shopper movements and promotions, delivering maximum convenience. The result: a personalised, secure, and future-ready shopping experience.

Rajeev Lee, Group CEO of Morgan’s Holdings, describes this launch as “reinventing retail itself.” Beyond the U.S., Morgan’s aims to expand across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, inviting partners and investors to help shape the next retail revolution.

Why It Matters

This isn’t just about technology, it’s about transforming everyday shopping into something faster, greener, and more personal. Imagine never queuing again, always finding what you need, and knowing your store runs efficiently and sustainably.

EC-Council, the organisation behind the world-renowned Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential, has released its CEH Hall of Fame 2025 Industry Report. The report showcases how CEH certification is transforming careers, strengthening national security, and shaping the future of the cybersecurity profession.

A Global Recognition of Cybersecurity Excellence

The Hall of Fame features 100 top-tier ethical hackers selected from 460 finalists across 93 countries. All inductees achieved scores of 90% or above on the CEH exam and demonstrated real-world impact, community leadership, and career progression in cybersecurity.

Key Insights from the 2025 Report

The report focuses on four pillars of impact:

• Career Advancement
• Industry Recognition
• Hands-On Proficiency
• Skills Gained

Highlights Include:

• ✅ 100% gained greater respect and recognition at work
• ✅ 99% experienced career benefits from CEH
• ✅ 99% found CEH virtual labs critical for skill development
• ✅ 97% confirmed CEH effectively addresses modern threats
• ✅ 91% believe CEH gives a competitive edge over other certifications

Setting New Standards in Ethical Hacking

“These professionals are not just protecting systems, they’re driving innovation, resilience, and growth,” said Jay Bavisi, Group President of EC-Council. “CEH is no longer just a credential, it’s a strategic career accelerator.”

The Future of CEH: Now Powered by AI

Looking ahead, EC-Council has launched the Certified Ethical Hacker Powered with AI Capabilities program. Built on the “Learn, Certify, Engage, and Compete” framework, this new version includes:

• Immersive labs
• Real-world simulations
• Mapped pathways to 45+ cybersecurity job roles

The program ensures professionals are well-equipped to combat today’s AI-powered cyber threats.

Download the Full Report

For full insights into how CEH is driving global cybersecurity success and career growth, download the complete CEH Hall of Fame 2025 Industry Report.

ABP Group, a leading name in Asia’s cybersecurity sector, has expanded its footprint in Malaysia by opening a new office in KL Eco City, strategically located across from Mid Valley City. This expansion marks a major milestone after six years of operations in the country and aligns with the company’s long-term vision for Southeast Asia.

Building Capacity for Regional Cyber Defence

The new Kuala Lumpur office features a modern, tech-enabled environment designed to support a growing team of cybersecurity professionals. It will serve as a core hub for regional service delivery, technical support, and talent development, aimed at boosting responsiveness to cyber threats in the region.

“This expansion enables us to increase delivery capacity and engage more deeply with clients,” said Sun Yi, Group CEO of ABP Group. “Our local presence ensures we stay close to our customers as demand for cybersecurity continues to rise.”

Malaysia as a Regional Cybersecurity Anchor

The expansion cements Malaysia’s role in ABP Group’s regional roadmap, supporting broader operations across Southeast Asia. The KL office will act as a central point for project execution, training, and collaboration, driving unified cybersecurity standards between Malaysia and Singapore.

“This move supports a shared cybersecurity ecosystem built on common infrastructure, talent, and resilience,” Sun added.

Rising Cyber Threats Demand Local Expertise

Malaysia recorded 19.62 million web-based attacks in the first half of 2024, the highest in Southeast Asia, according to Kaspersky’s Cybersecurity Report. The growing threat landscape highlights the urgent need for locally anchored, scalable solutions.

Three Business Units, One Unified Mission

ABP Group delivers its services through three specialized units:

• Sunnic – Focuses on R&D and cybersecurity innovation.
• ABP Cyber – Offers customised solutions to enterprises.
• ABP Securite – Drives regional distribution through partner networks.

Together, they provide end-to-end cybersecurity services tailored to local needs while achieving regional scale.

Looking Ahead: A Long-Term Vision for Digital Resilience

“This is more than just office space, it’s infrastructure for long-term digital protection,” Sun emphasised. “As Malaysia accelerates its digital transformation, we’re here to provide trusted, future-ready cybersecurity solutions.”

Explore More

To learn more about ABP Group’s cybersecurity services, visit: https://www.abpgroup.com