There is currently consensus that cybersecurity is a top priority for organisations, and that executives must be accountable. However, a recent study by Frost & Sullivan notes that one-third of executives from major businesses do not see the value of data security, even as they are aware of the significant impact of data breaches to the bottom line of a business.

Temasek Foundation Connects has been working together with the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) to strengthen cybersecurity amidst a fast-evolving and complex landscape. Organised by CSA, the third edition of the Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW), the region’s most established cybersecurity event, brought together over 8,000 top global policymakers, thought leaders, industry practitioners and experts from over 50 countries, to Singapore to advance knowledge exchange on, and commitment to address key cybersecurity issues. Held from 18 to 20 September 2018, the theme for this year was “Forging a Trusted and Open Cyberspace”. The event was launched by Guest-of-Honour, Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Mr. Teo Chee Hean.

Prominent events held at SICW include the ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity, the ASEAN Cybercrime Prosecutors’ Roundtable Meeting, the International Cyber Leaders’ Symposium, and GovernmentWare (GovWare). Temasek Foundation Connects, SICW’s strategic partner, also jointly presented the CXO Plenary for C-suite leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss key strategic developments in cybersecurity. Additionally, Temasek Foundation Connects also organised the by-invitation SICW Cybersecurity Lecture, during which Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, shared some insights on the way forward for cybersecurity.

Stressing the importance of discussion and collaboration in bringing about a strong, resilient and innovative cyberspace, Chief Executive of CSA, Mr. David Koh, said: “In the last few years, we have witnessed rapid digital transformation all over the world, but we have also seen the cybersecurity challenges that came along with it. Global conversations and greater cooperation among governments, industry and various stakeholders are now more critical than ever.”

Chief Executive of Temasek Foundation Connects, Mr. Lim Hock Chuan, also said: “As a strategic partner of Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, Temasek Foundation Connects helps bring together leaders and professionals at the Singapore International Cyber Week, and strengthen the collaborative relationships and ecosystems. This will enable us to build deep expertise and develop cybersecurity professionals needed to successfully counter cyber threats.”