Bilal Baig, Regional Technical Director at Trend Micro, discusses the company’s GITEX 2024 objectives to raise awareness of AI-driven cyber threats, showcase solutions, and strengthen its Middle East presence through stakeholder engagement.
What are your key objectives for participating in GITEX this year, and how do you plan to achieve them?
With cybercrime costing the global economy over $8 trillion annually, our focus is pivotal in raising awareness about the latest threats driven by AI in an increasingly complex digital landscape. GITEX allows us to showcase our cutting-edge solutions and raise awareness on the adoption of robust cybersecurity emphasizing how AI can be leveraged to proactively combat these emerging threats. This event offers a valuable opportunity to network with industry experts and explore collaborations that can drive innovation and growth in the cybersecurity sector. Through dynamic discussions, we aim to empower organizations to build resilience and stay ahead of evolving risks.
How does your presence at GITEX reflect your company’s strategy for growth in the Middle East and Africa region?
Our presence at GITEX is a pivotal element of our growth strategy in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. By participating in this leading technology event, we enhance our brand visibility and establish ourselves as frontrunners in AI backed cybersecurity. GITEX offers us the opportunity to connect with key regional partners, government agencies, and potential clients, fostering strategic alliances and tailored service offerings. Additionally, engaging directly with local stakeholders allows us to gain valuable insights into the unique challenges and trends of the region, enabling us to adapt our solutions to meet specific market needs.
Can you share some of the most exciting innovations or product launches you are showcasing at GITEX this year?
At GITEX 2024, Trend Micro is proud to present Trend Vision One, our comprehensive AI-powered cybersecurity platform designed to stop adversaries faster and manage cyber risks holistically. Trend Vision One offers complete attack surface visibility, eliminating gaps and harnessing advanced threat intelligence to protect diverse hybrid IT environments. With automated workflows and expert-managed services, it simplifies and converges security operations, enabling organizations to proactively prevent, detect, and respond to threats. Customers benefit from significant cost savings, reduced dwell time, and enhanced resilience.
What are your expansion plans for the Middle East, and how does GITEX play a role in supporting these plans?
Our expansion plans for the Middle East focus on strengthening our regional presence, building strategic partnerships, and tailoring our cybersecurity solutions to meet the unique needs of the market. Through GITEX, we gain valuable insights into regional challenges, demonstrate our commitment to the Middle East, and accelerate our growth by connecting with key stakeholders. This strategic participation ensures that we effectively address the evolving cybersecurity landscape in the Middle East and contribute to the region’s digital resilience and advancement.
What major technology trends do you foresee having the most impact on businesses in the region over the next few years?
Certainly! Here are the major technology trends with a one-line description each:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Transforming business operations through advanced data analytics and automation.
- Cloud Computing and Hybrid Environments: Enabling scalability and flexibility with robust multi-cloud security solutions.
- Internet of Things (IoT) Expansion: Driving innovation in smart cities and industries while increasing the need for comprehensive IoT security.
- 5G Technology Deployment: Enhancing connectivity and enabling new business models across various sectors.
- Cybersecurity and Resilience: Strengthening integrated security frameworks to defend against sophisticated cyber threats.
- Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies: Providing secure, transparent, and tamper-proof transactions for enhanced trust.
- Edge Computing: Reducing latency and improving real-time decision-making by processing data closer to its source.
- Remote Work and Collaboration Tools: Maintaining productivity and security with advanced remote access and collaboration solutions.
How do you support your regional partners in terms of training, marketing, and technical expertise?
We provide robust support to our regional partners through comprehensive training, marketing resources, and technical expertise. Our training programs are designed to equip partners with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively represent and implement our solutions. We offer a range of marketing materials and co-branding opportunities to help partners promote our products and services. Additionally, our technical support team provides ongoing assistance, including troubleshooting and solution customization, to ensure partners can deliver exceptional value to their customers.
What are the biggest challenges your company faces in the Middle Eastern market, and how are you addressing them?
One of our primary challenges in the Middle Eastern market is the varying levels of cybersecurity maturity among organizations. Coupled with the rapid evolution of cyber threats in the region, which has seen a significant increase over the past year, these factors pose substantial risks. As a prime target for sophisticated attacks, we prioritize continuous innovation in our security solutions, leveraging cutting-edge technology to stay ahead of emerging risks. Our threat intelligence capabilities are regularly updated to ensure effective protection against new vulnerabilities.
To address these challenges, we provide customized training and support through our comprehensive training programs, enhancing local capabilities and resilience. Cultural differences and language barriers are mitigated by offering multilingual support and culturally relevant services, ensuring our solutions are accessible and effective across diverse environments. Attracting and retaining skilled cybersecurity talent is also a key focus, achieved through initiatives like our CyberGATE internships and specialized training programs in partnership with local educational institutions. These programs foster the development of local expertise and provide competitive career opportunities.
By implementing these strategies, we effectively overcome the challenges in the Middle Eastern market, driving our growth and strengthening our commitment to enhancing cybersecurity resilience in the region.
How do you see your company’s role evolving in the Middle East post-GITEX, especially with regard to innovation and digital transformation?
Post-GITEX, we see our role in the Middle East evolving into a key driver of innovation and digital transformation. Building on the relationships and insights gained at the event, we will enhance our cybersecurity solutions by integrating advanced technologies like AI, machine learning, and blockchain to meet the region’s unique needs. We plan to collaborate closely with local partners, government agencies, and industry leaders to develop tailored solutions that address specific challenges and leverage regional opportunities. Our commitment to continuous innovation will ensure we create cutting-edge products that anticipate and mitigate emerging cyber threats, safeguarding digital infrastructures.
