Kuala Lumpur, 30 September 2025 — Cyber Digital Services, Defence and Security Asia (CyberDSA 2025) officially opened its doors as one of the region’s most content-driven platforms for cybersecurity, defence, and digital trust. The event gathered decision-makers from governments, the private sector, regulators, military officials, CISOs, practitioners, and researchers from across the globe to address pressing challenges in cyberspace and to showcase cutting-edge technologies designed to safeguard digital economies.

As digitalisation transforms industries including the rail sector, where smart systems, ticketing, and signalling rely heavily on interconnected networks, cybersecurity has become a critical foundation for operational safety and reliability. CyberDSA 2025 serves as a timely platform for the rail industry to explore solutions that ensure the protection of critical infrastructure, data integrity, and passenger trust in an increasingly connected mobility ecosystem.

Strengthening Digital Trust Across Communities

Panelists stressed that digital trust is not only a technological issue but also a social and cultural imperative. Agencies, regulators, and industry players must work collaboratively to ensure that trust is embedded into digital ecosystems.

Particular emphasis was placed on the underprivileged community, where access to technology is often limited and digital literacy remains a challenge. Speakers argued that empowering these groups with digital trust will not only protect them from scams but also enhance their ability to participate in the digital economy.

While technology continues to advance rapidly, experts acknowledge the dark side of digital innovation. Scammers are increasingly exploiting systems to manipulate human emotions and capitalize on people’s inherent trust in digital platforms.

One common example shared was tax scams. Victims, fearing penalties or blocked bank accounts, were tricked by fraudsters posing as officials who offered “assistance” in transferring money. These manipulative tactics highlight the urgent need for stronger awareness campaigns, multi-agency collaboration, and technological safeguards.

Cybersecurity and Digital Trust in the Rail Industry

During an interview session at CyberDSA 2025, Dave Britt, CTO of BYTE25 representing Maxis, emphasized the critical role of cybersecurity in the rail industry. He pointed out that many operators currently lack visibility into their networks, often “running a little bit blind” when it comes to monitoring performance and detecting threats. Britt explained that Maxis aims to help the rail sector by providing solutions that improve network transparency, enhance safety, and ensure reliable performance. He further stressed that cybersecurity cannot be underestimated, as the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks continue to grow year after year making resilience a non-negotiable priority for the future of smart rail systems.

The discussions at CyberDSA also carry strong relevance for the rail industry, which is increasingly adopting digital solutions for operations, passenger services, and safety systems. As rail networks move towards smart infrastructure and integrated digital platforms, the risks of cyberattacks, data breaches, and online scams become more significant. Just as digital trust is critical for consumers in everyday online transactions, it is equally vital for passengers and operators who rely on digital ticketing, real-time communication, and automated control systems. Building robust cybersecurity frameworks and cultivating public trust in these technologies are essential to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient railway services in Malaysia and beyond.

Looking Ahead

For the rail industry, where digital systems are the backbone of operations, discussions at CyberDSA 2025 underscore the urgent need for a cyber-resilient future. By fostering stronger collaboration between technology providers, government agencies, and transport operators, the event reinforces Malaysia’s commitment to securing its rail infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. Ultimately, CyberDSA 2025 highlights how cybersecurity readiness is not just a digital concern but a vital component in ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable rail mobility across the nation.