Unveiling the new Consultation Council for Malta’s Cybersecurity Community: Building a Stronger Digital Defence
In an ever-evolving digital world, cybersecurity stands as a vital pillar of our technological landscape. Recognising its cross-cutting significance, MITA through the NCC-MT recently held its inaugural Annual General Meeting at the AX Palace in Sliema.
This CYBER Breakfast event aimed to unveil Malta’s new consultation council, a pioneering administrative and advisory body that will shape the future of cybersecurity practices in Malta from 2023 to 2025. With an impressive lineup of industry giants, this community promises to usher in a new era of trust, collaboration, and enhanced protection against cyber threats.
Building Trust and Collaboration:
The significance of this community lies not only in its diverse members but also in its role as a catalyst for ethical practices and strengthened cybersecurity measures. Anchored by the core principle of transparency, the consultation council acts as an oversight body responsible for managing policies, initiatives, market actions, memberships, and acceptable behavior within the community. Crucially, they hold the power to amend the bylaws with a two-thirds majority agreement, ensuring flexibility in response to evolving cybersecurity challenges.
The Inaugural Consultation Council:
Comprised of four administrative members, two public sector and public service representatives, and seven sectorial representatives, the consultation council boasts a dynamic lineup of professionals spanning various industries.
From research and academia to financial services, online gaming, cybersecurity service providers, SMEs, and other sectors, each representative brings a unique perspective and expertise to the table. With members appointed for a two-year term, the council is poised to drive impactful initiatives and foster an ecosystem of shared knowledge and collaboration.
Key Roles and Expectations:
At the helm of the consultation council, Jonathan Cassar, the CTO of MITA, assumes the role of Chair. Charged with ensuring future technological capabilities and aligning with business needs and national IT strategies, his expertise will drive the community forward in the face of cyber threats.
Supported by Katia Bonello as Secretary, responsible for providing authoritative guidance, and Kirsten Cremona as Advisor, offering invaluable consultancy and guidance, the council is well-equipped to navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape.
Looking Ahead:
While the vice chair position is yet to be announced, the council eagerly anticipates selecting an exemplary candidate to fill this crucial role. With working groups set to emerge from the council, periodic updates and finalised outcomes will be presented, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and addressing common challenges faced by the community.
The formation of this community comes in response to the need for a formal cybersecurity community in Malta, driven by the mandate of the European Cybersecurity Competence Centre (ECCC). By uniting cybersecurity professionals and fostering collaboration, the community aims to benefit not only its members but also the broader Maltese cyberspace.
Joining the Community:
Membership within the cybersecurity community is open to all individuals and entities keen to contribute and strengthen Malta’s cybersecurity landscape. The registration process is straightforward and can be completed through the National Cybersecurity Coordination Centre (NCC) website, providing an avenue for organisations and individuals to align with best practices, participate in community events, and tap into European cybersecurity initiatives.
The unveiling of the cybersecurity community and its consultation council marks a significant milestone in Malta’s cybersecurity journey. By harnessing the collective expertise and resources of its members, this community aims to build trust, foster collaboration, and enhance cybersecurity practices across the nation.