PUTRAJAYA, 8 June 2023 – Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) and HeiTech Padu Bhd came together to mark a significant milestone in the field of cybersecurity with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaborative effort aims to develop and engage in the CARES (Cybersecurity Advanced Research for Energy Sector) Program, which will drive research, innovation, and education in the cybersecurity domain.

The CARES Program, encompassing various components, signifies the commitment of both UNITEN and HeiTech Padu Bhd to advancing the field of cybersecurity. It will include research and development initiatives, innovation in the areas of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI), and the creation of module content for a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science Cybersecurity and a Professional Certificate.

One of the key outcomes of this partnership is the establishment of a joint-venture Cybersecurity Centre-of-Excellence (CoE), which will serve as a hub for research and innovation in the energy sector. The CoE will facilitate collaboration between industry experts and UNITEN's undergraduate and postgraduate students, providing valuable opportunities for industrial training, internships, and knowledge sharing.

The MoU signing ceremony, held this morning at UNITEN Putrajaya Campus, brought together esteemed representatives from both institutions. It was a momentous occasion that underscored the shared vision of UNITEN and HeiTech Padu Bhd in cultivating a culture of technological excellence and equipping students with the necessary skills and expertise to address the evolving challenges in cybersecurity. It further demonstrates the dedication of both institutions to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and addressing the critical cybersecurity needs of the energy sector.

The signing of the MoU was presided over by Vice Chancellor of UNITEN, Prof. Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan and Senior Vice President of HeiTech Padu Bhd, Ts. Wan Zailani bin Wan Ismail.

"We are thrilled to embark on this partnership with HeiTech Padu Bhd," said Vice Chancellor of UNITEN, Prof. Ir. Dr. Noor Azuan. "Together, we aim to make significant strides in the field of cybersecurity and empower our students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in this rapidly evolving industry. The joint Cybersecurity Centre-of-Excellence will play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and driving innovation in the energy domain." he added.

The collaboration will also serve as an important step towards strengthening the nation’s research and innovation in cybersecurity. HeiTech Senior Vice President, Ts. Wan Zailani Wan Ismail said, "HeiTech aims to contribute towards having industry-ready talents in cybersecurity that the market can tap onto immediately upon graduation of the students. The establishment of the joint-venture Cybersecurity Centre-of-Excellence is a significant outcome of this partnership. We believe this collaboration will provide valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing, industrial training, and internships, thereby empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals."