Tan Jing Jie, a third-year doctorate student from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), is the Malaysian champion of the ASEAN-IPR Cybersecurity Youth Essay Competition.
In his writings, the varsity's Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science PhD candidate explored how artificial intelligence (AI) and assistive technology can strengthen global cybersecurity efforts while mitigating risks such as privacy breaches, misinformation, and algorithmic bias.
Drawing from his research on image recognition for visually impaired individuals and human personality recognition for social media, Tan examined both the potential and ethical dilemmas of AI-driven innovations, particularly in accessibility and digital security in his "Bytes of Peace: Leveraging Technology to Promote Trust and Security" essay.
Tan’s essay can be accessed at the ASEAN Institute for Peace & Reconciliation (ASEAN-IPR) website: ASEAN-IPR Cybersecurity Youth Essay Competition (Page 60, searchable with Page 64).
The competition, regarded as a leading regional platform for youth discourse on cybersecurity, challenged participants to propose solutions addressing real-world concerns in the digital landscape. Tan’s article stood out for its nuanced discussion on balancing technological advancement with ethical responsibility.
As the sole Malaysian awardee, Tan’s achievement was recognised with a certificate, a fully funded five-day trip to Bangkok, a USD 400 (RM 1,777) cash prize, and a publication opportunity. He received the award from H.E. Datin Sarah Al Bakri Devadason, the Ambassador of Malaysia to ASEAN, who commended the participants for their contributions to shaping ASEAN’s digital future.
Reflecting on his journey, Tan credited his research mentors, Dr Tan Joi San, Assoc Prof Dr Kwan Ban Hoe, Ir Dr Danny Ng Wee Kiat, Assoc Prof Ir Ts Dr Hum Yan Chai, Prof Anissa Mokraoui (France), and Dr Lo Shih-Yu (Taiwan), for their guidance.
“The competition provided an opportunity to connect my research with pressing global concerns,” he shared. “The rapid integration of AI in everyday life brings both incredible possibilities and unforeseen risks. Through this competition, I was able to explore solutions that not only push technological boundaries but also ensure ethical responsibility in cybersecurity.”
The journey to the competition required rigorous preparation, with Tan refining his research through discussions with academic peers and industry professionals. The final rounds were particularly demanding, requiring participants to defend their essays before a distinguished panel, responding to real-time critiques and engaging in thought-provoking discussions.
“The challenge wasn’t just about presenting research but communicating complex ideas effectively,” said Tan. “The panel raised critical questions about cybersecurity policies, AI regulation, and ethical concerns, which required me to think on my feet and provide well-supported arguments.”
The discussions also highlighted ASEAN’s evolving cybersecurity landscape, particularly in areas such as regional collaboration, data protection, and responsible AI deployment. The experience allowed Tan to not only test his research against real-world scenarios but also engage with professionals and policymakers shaping the field.
The ASEAN-IPR Cybersecurity Youth Essay Competition was aimed at engaging the youth from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste by encouraging them to explore unique perspectives on cybersecurity through the lens of human security.
With the growing importance of cybersecurity in peace-building and human security, the competition sought to raise awareness and stimulate discourse among young minds about how technology impacts security, trust, and stability in the region.
The selected winners, one winner from each ASEAN member state and Timor-Leste, were given the opportunity to attend the ASEAN-IPR Regional Conference on Cybersecurity and the Role of Information Technology in Fostering a Culture of Peace in ASEAN in Bangkok, Thailand.
Held from Feb 24 - 26, the conference provided participants a platform to present their ideas and engage with experts from the fields of peace-building, IT, and cybersecurity.
“The discussions and exchanges at the conference have deepened my understanding of how cybersecurity intersects with trust and peace,” he reflected. “Technology has the potential to bridge divides, but only if developed responsibly.”
H.E Datin Sarah Al Bakri Devadason (left) presenting the award certificate to Tan
Tan with his award certificate at the conference
Tan’s certificate
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