BlackBerry Limited, in collaboration with the Canadian Government and Toronto Metropolitan University's Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst, announced a CAD$3.9 million investment to enhance cybersecurity training and threat intelligence in Malaysia and ASEAN nations.

The initiative, aligned with Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy, aims to train 3,500 cyber-defenders across the region. It also seeks to establish Malaysia's Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (CCoE) in Cyberjaya as a hub for regional cybersecurity expertise.

Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated, "The Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence has the potential to be an international destination to address emerging cyber threats."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau added, "With our government's investment, Canada will share cyber expertise, train ASEAN's cyber workforce, and strengthen collective capacity to counter cyber threats."

BlackBerry CEO John Giamatteo highlighted the significance of a skilled cyber workforce, calling the CCoE "the beating heart of the region's cyber-threat defence capabilities."

Courses at the CCoE will include role-based education, specialist tracks, and leadership certifications, with dedicated programmes for women. Scholarships will also be offered to regional participants.

The announcement follows BlackBerry and the Malaysian Government's 2023 agreement to enhance cybersecurity through advanced training and technology. The CCoE officially opened in March 2024.