| Azaraimy HH |
KEVIN McDonald, a cybersecurity expert and author of ‘Above the Clouds: Managing Risk in the World of Cloud Computing,’ delivered a talk yesterday at the Design & Technology Building in Kampong Anggerek Desa, exploring the risks and entrepreneurial opportunities presented by the ever-increasing sophistication of business and technology in the digital economy.
The two-day cybersecurity and digital economy talk – part of the US Speaker Programme – was hosted by the US Embassy in Brunei Darussalam.
Giving examples of various new technologies, the speaker at one point queried from the audience on what the most important element in starting a business is, while in another instance, the speaker asked about the risks or disruptions that might occur when using drones or driverless trucks to deliver goods to consumers.
McDonald also emphasised the importance of weighing up the pros and cons of using digital technology to drive a business model, not just in terms of business risks, but also in terms of social and environmental risks that may occur.
He also touched on game-changing technologies associated with the digital economy, such as bitcoin and its alternatives, and the emerging popularity of cryptocurrency.
The two-day programme covers cybersecurity, the digital economy and entrepreneurship, with speaker sessions held for employees from the government and private sector, local entrepreneurs, youths, and members from the local tech industry.
McDonald is an internationally recognised expert on cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and emerging technology. He is a faculty member of Georgetown University’s Cybersecurity, Technology Management and Systems Engineering programmes. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Project Management Institute, Washington DC Chapter; senior advisor to the ISACA’s Public Policy Working Group; and founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Greystaff Group – a cybersecurity consulting firm specialising in cyber risk management and startup advisory services.
Welcoming McDonald to Brunei, US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Craig D Allen said, “On behalf of the US Embassy here in Brunei Darussalam, we are honoured to have Kevin McDonald here to share his expert opinion and perspective on cybersecurity policy. In today’s increasingly interconnected world, McDonald’s expertise in the digital economy and entrepreneurship, and how they interface with cybersecurity infrastructure, will be of great benefit to those who hear him speak. We are grateful for this opportunity to engage with Brunei on such an important and timely subject.”
Through the US Speaker Programme, Americans of various professional backgrounds travel to foreign countries, meeting up with groups of people in the host countries and delivering lectures, workshops, and seminars to discuss American policies, society and culture.
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