Muscat: The 12th edition of the Regional Cybersecurity Week, which commenced in Muscat on Monday, has seen the participation of over 600 decision-makers, experts, and specialists from 60 countries.
The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Sayyid Hamoud Faisal Al Busaidi, the Minister of Interior.
This event is organized by the Regional Cybersecurity Centre, a division of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology is the host of the Regional Cybersecurity Week. The focus of the week is on significant advancements in the cybersecurity sector, the threats and risks associated with the information domain, particularly concerning government entities, institutions, and critical industries.
In his address during the opening ceremony, Eng. Said Hamoud Al Ma’awali, the Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, reaffirmed the Sultanate of Oman's commitment to supporting international cooperation, as evidenced by its involvement with the ITU at various levels.
Since its inception in 2013, the Regional Cybersecurity Centre has supported over 190 projects and initiatives across more than 50 countries. Eng. Al Ma’awali highlighted the significant impact of these initiatives, benefiting over 10,000 cybersecurity professionals, and expressed appreciation for the strategic partnership with the ITU, its Arab Regional Office, the League of Arab States, and its affiliated organizations.
He outlined the week's agenda, which includes the inaugural GCC Cybersecurity Hackathon and Hadatha Cybersecurity Award, as well as the recognition of institutions and individuals who have excelled in the Cybersecurity Programme.
The Minister also announced the launch of the CREST CAMP program, designed to expedite the readiness of companies to offer cybersecurity services. This program, in collaboration with the CREST organization of the United Kingdom, has seen the establishment of cybersecurity industry centers in partnership with Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS).
Furthermore, the Minister introduced the Cybersecurity Monitoring Centre, the world's first center dedicated to measuring and monitoring the growth of the cybersecurity industry sector.
The week's activities also encompass the "12th Regional Cybersecurity Conference," where international experts and speakers gather to share best practices and discuss countries' experiences in the cybersecurity sector. This event explores strategic opportunities and enablers that foster innovation and digital security, thereby supporting the digital economy at both regional and international levels. It aims to enhance cooperation among various entities and organizations specialized in cybersecurity and to unify efforts in addressing the escalating threats.
Additionally, an exhibition held in conjunction with the Regional Cybersecurity Week showcases the products of companies operating within the cybersecurity sector, as well as common risks and threats.
The week's activities include the inaugural symposium for Arab and African countries, the 16th Annual Conference of the Islamic Cooperation Organisation (ICO) Cybersecurity Centres, and the 12th Regional Cybersecurity Exercise for Arab Countries and OIC Member States.
