​The percentage share of the female workforce in Information and Communication surpasses the male workforce in the Sultanate, the Annual Census of Enterprises 2023 revealed.

The female workforce growth in this sector between 2021 and 2022 was the second highest, with an 8.8 per cent increment.

Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Chong Chin Yee shared this at the Ladies in Cyber event themed ‘Bridging the Gap: Empowering Women In Cybersecurity’ at The Rizqun International Hotel yesterday.

She said the progress is a clear indication of the shifting of dynamics in the country’s workforce and the increasing role women play in shaping the future of technology and cybersecurity.

Yang Berhormat Chong Chin Yee added, in today’s digital age, cybersecurity transcends the mere technical necessity.

“It is the cornerstone of our global digital economy, safeguarding our information, protecting our privacy, and securing the infrastructure that underpins our daily lives,” she said.

“Yet, as we navigate the complexities of this digital era, we are confronted with a significant challenge – the under representation of women in cybersecurity and the overarching need for cyber resilience.”

Globally, women constitute only 28 per cent of the workforce in the technology sector, with Southeast Asia leading slightly higher at 32 per cent. The figure underscores the vast potential for growth and the critical need for initiatives such as Ladies in Cyber, led by Brunei Cyber Security Association (BCSA).

Yang Berhormat Chong Chin Yee added, in a digital landscape plagued by scams, disinformation, and misinformation, the imperative for cyber resilience has escalated.

The event also celebrated the first Bruneian recipient of the ‘Top Women in Security ASEAN’ award, Jasmine Wong.

Yang Berhormat Chong Chin Yee said the recognition is a testament to the potential of women in the country to be acknowledged on regional and international platforms

(News & pic source: Borneo Bulletin)