SHAH ALAM, Dec 3 — Italy-based aerospace, defence and security giant Leonardo has opened its newest regional cyber centre here, its first in the Far East, in a move set to consolidate Malaysia’s position as a strategic global cyber security hub.
The facility aims to strengthen global protection against emerging hybrid threats, enhance digital autonomy, and support the sustainable development of Malaysia and the wider region.
The new centre joins Leonardo’s global network, which includes its headquarters in Chieti (Italy), as well as centres in Brussels (Belgium), Bristol (United Kingdom), and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia).
The network is designed to ensure cyber mission assurance for strategic customers, including defence organisations and critical national infrastructures, by integrating processes, threats intelligence, and advanced technologies.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil exchanges a plaque with Leonardo Cyber and Security Solutions Division managing director Andrea Campora after the launch of the Leonardo Regional Cyber Centre in Shah Alam on December 3, 2025. — Picture by AMAR SHAH MOHSEN/MEDIA SELANGOR
In his opening speech, Leonardo Malaysia managing director Lorenzo Pariani said the decision to establish the centre in Malaysia was driven by the nation’s stability, the government’s forward-thinking vision, and its talent pool.
“We first came to Malaysia 40 years ago, focusing mainly on telecommunications. Malaysia has been a long-standing industrial partner for us.
“Is there a specific formula for industrial success? I’m not so sure, but what we have seen in Malaysia are three cornerstones, that are stability, government vision, and talent,” he said at the launch, which was officiated by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Pariani added that Leonardo remains committed to training local expertise, noting that over 95 per cent of its staff in Malaysia today are locals.
Leonardo Cyber and Security Solutions Division managing director Andrea Campora said the company is collaborating with universities and exploring the possibility of organising Capture the Flag hacking competitions to identify the country’s top cyber security talents.
In a statement, Leonardo said choosing Malaysia for the regional centre reflects the country’s leading role in cyber security, particularly its advanced legislation and strong protection of critical national infrastructure.
“The opening of the new regional cyber centre strengthens Leonardo’s position as a leader in global security technologies… and represents a key milestone in our long-term strategy of expanding our international presence in the country and region.”
Later, when speaking to the press, Campora commended Malaysia’s regulatory framework and proactive approach to cyber security.
“I’ve read your Cyber Security Act 2024, it is very advanced, (as are your) data protection regulations, the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint, and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP).
“All these point to a trajectory of a nation that places strong importance (on cyber security). These are among the reasons we chose to be here,” Campora said. – Media Selangor
