KUALA LUMPUR – BlackBerry Limited and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) have formalised a multi-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at nurturing Malaysia’s next generation of cyber-leaders and embedded software engineers.
This partnership seeks to advance the country’s objectives of enhancing digital talent, improving industry competitiveness, and bolstering cyber resilience within the ASEAN region.
The MOU was signed in the presence of Malaysia’s Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, and Canada’s Minister of International Trade, The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. This agreement highlights the strengthening of ties between Canada and Malaysia, with both nations demonstrating a shared commitment to improving regional cybersecurity in response to growing digital threats.
“The Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia strongly supports the collaboration between UKM and BlackBerry,” said Zambry. “This partnership will not only advance research and innovation at UKM but also equip students with the skills needed to become future cyber professionals and embedded software developers, contributing to Malaysia’s digital advancement.”
The agreement sets out a framework for cooperation centred on academic excellence, workforce readiness, and research leadership. UKM students and faculty will gain access to industry-relevant training in cybersecurity and software development, as well as internships, research grants, and internationally recognised certifications.
Canada’s Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, remarked, “Canada is a leader in cybersecurity across ASEAN, and partnerships like this show how Canadian innovation, led by companies like BlackBerry, can foster secure, future-ready digital economies. By collaborating with institutions like Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, we are helping develop the skilled talent and technologies that will drive prosperity across the region.”
John Giamatteo, CEO of BlackBerry, stressed the importance of creating a digitally skilled workforce. “This partnership with UKM provides talented individuals with access to world-class training, real-world experience, and mentorship, equipping them with the skills to address tomorrow’s cybersecurity challenges and contribute to Malaysia’s economy.”
The collaboration also extends to the embedded software sector. UKM students and educators will have access to BlackBerry’s QNX® Everywhere programme, which provides expertise in the QNX® Software Development Platform (SDP). This initiative includes curriculum development, training, certifications, and free non-commercial QNX licences, with the aim of helping students better understand QNX® technologies, trusted by global leaders in the medical device and automotive industries.
The partnership aligns with Malaysia’s national policies, focusing on the development of curriculum and training that meets industry needs, advancing academic and research capabilities in areas such as embedded systems, secure communications, and cybersecurity, and supporting professional growth in technology for students and faculty. Moreover, it will provide ethical cyber training and support to disadvantaged youth.
In addition, UKM has announced a collaboration with BlackBerry and Malaysia’s National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) to launch the Trustworthy Professionals programme. This initiative will offer cybersecurity training and hands-on experience to 50 underprivileged youths, combining academic learning, government support, and industry expertise. The programme’s aim is to promote integrity, ethics, and trust in the fight against digital crime and fraud.
Prof. Dr. Sufian Jusoh concluded, “Our collaboration with BlackBerry is a significant step toward strengthening Malaysia’s capabilities in cybersecurity education and research.
By merging UKM’s academic excellence with BlackBerry’s global expertise, we aim to nurture a new generation of technology leaders, equipped not only with advanced technical knowledge but also with ethical values to protect Malaysia’s digital future.” – October 28, 2025