SICW 2024: Advancing Global Cybersecurity Amid Geopolitical Tensions

SINGAPORE, October 14, 2024 – The Singapore International Cyber Week (SICW) commences today for its ninth edition, continuing to be a key platform for international dialogue and cooperation on cybersecurity issues. Running from 14 to 17 October, the event is set to attract 12,000 delegates from over 80 countries, including top policymakers, industry leaders, and cybersecurity experts.

With the theme “Trust and Security in the Digital Era”, SICW 2024 will address the increasingly fraught cyber landscape, where geopolitical tensions and distrust, fueled by issues like the US-China rivalry and ongoing global conflicts, have hindered dialogue on technology and security. As a result, this year’s discussions will focus on building partnerships and fostering trust to enhance security in the digital and cyber domains.

The event, which will be opened by Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Mr Teo Chee Hean, includes major highlights such as the ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity (AMCC) and the GovWare Exhibition and Conference.

Tackling Distrust in a Polarized World

SICW 2024 takes place against a backdrop of global uncertainty, where political and technological divisions have slowed progress on critical cyber issues. However, SICW remains a pivotal forum for open dialogue, bringing together diverse and even opposing perspectives on cybersecurity policy, technical challenges, and diplomatic concerns. This year, high-level discussions will feature ministers and senior representatives from countries including ASEAN Member States, the United States, China, Russia, and the European Union.

The four opening plenary sessions will cover urgent topics like tech regulation, digital governance, election security, and the safeguarding of trust in the digital era. Representatives from countries such as Indonesia, Qatar, Russia, and the United Kingdom will share their insights in these panels, reflecting the global reach of the conference.

Expanding the Scope of Cybersecurity

Beyond traditional cybersecurity matters, SICW 2024 will delve into broader issues such as election security, the regulation of big tech companies, and the creation of an interoperable framework for digital standards. The conference will also examine the diplomatic and security implications of emerging technologies, with discussions set to explore the role of new digital tools in fostering or undermining international cooperation.

The ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity will continue to be a cornerstone of SICW, offering a venue for ASEAN Member States to strengthen regional cybersecurity frameworks. Notably, ASEAN has made significant strides, becoming the first and only regional bloc to adopt UN norms of responsible state behavior in cyberspace. During the conference, Malaysia’s Digital Minister, Mr Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, will deliver a keynote address, sharing insights ahead of Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025. His speech is expected to underscore the region’s priorities in navigating the digital space amid global competition.

Showcasing Innovation at GovWare

Complementing the high-level discussions will be the GovWare Exhibition and Conference, now in its 31st year. This year, over 300 exhibitors will showcase cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, while thought-provoking discussions will explore the governance and security challenges of artificial intelligence and the evolving digital landscape.

As the world continues to grapple with distrust and division in the cyber realm, SICW 2024 stands out as a critical platform for fostering collaboration, advancing innovation, and promoting security in an increasingly complex digital era.

AsiaBizToday