Minister Ma’awali Drives Oman’s Cybersecurity Ambitions with New Initiatives

The cybersecurity sector of Oman is set to experience new advancements, as announced by H.E. Eng. Said bin Hamoud bin Said al Ma’awali, the Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT). During the 12th edition of the Regional Cybersecurity Week, held recently in Muscat, a series of initiatives aimed at upgrading the cybersecurity in Oman were unveiled. 

The four-day conference attracted over 600 decision-makers, experts, and specialists from 60 countries, focusing on critical developments in cybersecurity and the various threats faced by governments, national institutions, and vital industries. In his opening remarks, Minister Ma’awali emphasized Oman’s commitment to enhancing international cooperation in the cybersecurity sector.  

Strengthening Initiatives for Cybersecurity in Oman 

One of the standout initiatives introduced is the CREST CAMP program, designed to accelerate the maturity of companies providing cybersecurity services in Oman. This program will be implemented in collaboration with the British CREST organization, which is renowned for its expertise in cybersecurity. Such partnerships are crucial for the ongoing development of cybersecurity in Oman.  

Additionally, the establishment of the Hadatha Center for the Cybersecurity Industry was announced. This center, in partnership with Sultan Qaboos University and the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, will focus on nurturing national industries within the cybersecurity sector of Oman. This initiative aims to equip local talent with the necessary skills to thrive in an increasingly digital world. 

Another groundbreaking initiative is the Cybersecurity Industry Monitoring Centre, touted as the first of its kind globally. This center is set to measure and monitor the growth of cybersecurity in Oman, ensuring that the industry remains agile and responsive to cyber threats.  

Global Recognition and Local Impact 

The minister highlighted Oman’s achievements in the field of cybersecurity, noting that the nation ranks among the most prepared countries globally, according to the 2024 Global Cybersecurity Index published by the International Telecommunication Union. This accomplishment is attributed to the collaborative efforts of MTCIT, along with various government and private entities, notably the Cyber Defence Centre. 

H.E. Ma’awali stated, “As a result of our collective initiatives at national, regional, and global levels, we have positioned Oman as a leader in cybersecurity readiness.” This recognition not only enhances Oman’s global standing but also reinforces its commitment to maintaining the highest standards in cybersecurity. 

Innovative Approaches 

The week’s events included exciting innovations, such as the first Gulf Cybersecurity Industry Hackathon, aimed at promoting creativity within the cybersecurity domain. This initiative encourages participants to develop innovative solutions to pressing cybersecurity challenges, fostering a culture of collaboration and ingenuity. 

Furthermore, the Hadatha Award for the Cybersecurity Industry was introduced to recognize excellence among institutions and individuals working in Oman’s cybersecurity landscape. This recognition serves to motivate professionals and institutions to strive for higher standards in cybersecurity practices. 

Future Directions 

Looking ahead, H.E. Ma’awali reiterated the government’s focus on diversifying income sources through technology, knowledge, and innovation. He emphasized the importance of positioning the digital economy as a national priority, which includes developing advanced infrastructure capable of addressing the evolving challenges within the cybersecurity sector. 

As Oman embarks on this journey to strengthen its cybersecurity sector, the initiatives announced during the Regional Cybersecurity Week reflect a proactive approach to tackling potential threats and enhancing the nation’s resilience. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders and investing in local talent, Oman is not only securing its digital world but also paving the way for better digital economy that can compete on a global scale. 

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