GEORGE TOWN: In response to the growing cybersecurity risks faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), HWD Systems Sdn Bhd and Digital Penang Sdn Bhd signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive greater cybersecurity awareness and adoption among businesses in Penang.
The initiative is further strengthened through the participation of Tokio Marine Insurans (Malaysia) Bhd (Tokio Marine), providing insurance-backed support to help businesses manage and recover from cyber incidents.
The MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, reflecting the state government’s commitment to building a resilient and secure digital economy while ensuring SMEs are not left behind as digitalisation accelerates.
As SMEs increasingly rely on digital platforms to improve efficiency and competitiveness, many remain vulnerable to cyber incidents. At the same time, the cybersecurity industry has traditionally focused on larger enterprises, leaving SMEs with limited access to practical, affordable and integrated solutions. This gap has heightened SME exposure to cyber threats that can disrupt operations, compromise sensitive data, and impact business continuity.
The collaboration between HWD Systems and Digital Penang was formed to address this challenge by making cybersecurity more accessible and relevant to SMEs. Tokio Marine, as the insurance partner for the Cybersure programme, adds an additional layer of protection by supporting forensic and recovery-related costs in the event of a cyber incident, giving businesses greater confidence to adopt cybersecurity measures.
“As Penang advances as a digitally driven economy, cybersecurity must be treated as a fundamental element of business resilience and good governance,” said Chow.
“This collaboration brings together technology, risk management and protection to ensure our SMEs can adopt digital solutions with greater confidence, while strengthening trust and sustainability within Penang’s digital ecosystem.”
Digital Penang chief executive officer Ng Kwang Ming said the partnership reflects a practical and inclusive approach to strengthening SME readiness in the digital economy.
“SMEs form the backbone of Penang's economy and as digital adoption accelerates, it is critical that cybersecurity awareness and protection grow in tandem.
“Through this collaboration, Digital Penang aims to bridge the gap by connecting SMEs with accessible solutions, knowledge and industry partners, enabling them to operate securely and sustainably,” he said.
Tokio Marine also underscored the importance of integrated protection in today’s business environment. “In today’s digital-first economy, cybersecurity is no longer just a technical requirement but a fundamental pillar of business continuity,” said Tokio Marine chief executive officer Ng Hang Ming.
HWD Systems is the company behind Cybersure, a comprehensive cyber risk management solution that combines cybersecurity technology, continuous monitoring, incident response support and insurance-backed protection. Through this partnership, Cybersure will be introduced to SMEs as an end-to-end tailored cybersecurity solution delivering enterprise-level protection, enabling businesses to focus confidently on their core operations.
The collaboration also supports growing environmental, social and governance (ESG) compliance requirements, particularly for SMEs working with large corporates or operating within supply chains. As cybersecurity becomes an increasingly important component of governance and risk management, the initiative aims to help SMEs strengthen their cyber practices in line with evolving ESG expectations.
As the strategic partner, Digital Penang will lead awareness and outreach initiatives, including workshops, seminars and industry engagement programmes, leveraging its strong network of SMEs, corporates and digital ecosystem partners across Penang and the northern region.
The MoU reflects a shared commitment by HWD Systems, Digital Penang and Tokio Marine, with the support of the Penang state government, to help SMEs safeguard their operations and build confidence in their digital journey. The partnership will initially run for one year, with joint programmes and initiatives planned to support SMEs in improving cybersecurity readiness and resilience for the future.
