Overview
The SecureAsi@ V2.0 workshop was a comprehensive five-day advanced cybersecurity training program that brought together NREN engineers and administrators from across Asia. Building on the success of the 2017 SecureAsi@ workshop, this intensive program focused on practical network security, ethical hacking, intrusion detection, and malware analysis.
Participants gained hands-on experience with industry-standard tools including Kali Linux, Wireshark, Tshark, and engaged in Capture-the-Flag (CTF) challenges to test their newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios.
Project Objectives
🎯 Advanced Knowledge
Provide advanced cybersecurity knowledge and practical skills to strengthen regional security capacity
🛡️ Proactive Defense
Equip NREN staff with tools to proactively detect, assess, and defend against cyber threats
🤝 International Collaboration
Enhance international collaboration and strengthen the human network in the research and education community
🔐 Secure Practices
Promote secure network practices among NREN partners across the region
Activities Conducted
The workshop featured an intensive curriculum combining theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on training:
🖥️ Technical Sessions
- Cybersecurity goals and ethics
- Linux networking fundamentals
- Network monitoring with Wireshark & Tshark
- Intrusion Detection Systems
🔍 Advanced Topics
- Malware and botnet detection
- Exploiting & patching vulnerabilities
- Capture the Flag (CTF) challenges
- Practical threat response
Beyond technical training, the workshop included social events such as a welcome reception and official dinner, fostering cross-border collaboration and networking among participants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Pakistan.
Key Outcomes
📚 Knowledge Transfer
Participants gained advanced knowledge of cybersecurity tools and response techniques, significantly enhancing their technical capabilities.
🌏 Regional Capacity
Strengthened regional security capacity in research and education networks across participating countries.
🔗 Knowledge Network
Developed a sustainable knowledge-sharing network through social media platforms and dedicated websites.
⭐ High Satisfaction
Participants highly rated workshop content, instructors, hands-on engagement, and logistics, validating the training model.
Challenges and Future Improvements
- Extended Duration: Participants requested more time for hands-on activities
- Skill Standardization: Variability in technical readiness required better pre-screening
- Remote Access: Suggestions for video conferencing to expand accessibility
- Continuous Engagement: Plans for follow-up workshops and virtual CTF sessions
Partner Organizations
🏛️ Host Institution
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Primary host and venue provider in Penang, Malaysia
🌐 Network Partners
MYREN
Malaysian Research and Education Network - Regional coordination
🎓 Academic Partners
Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany
International expertise and curriculum development
🤝 Supporting Partner
University of Hamburg, Germany
Planned collaboration and resource sharing