AI And Cyber Threats Demand Security Industry Overhaul - PENSEC

GEORGE TOWN, May 22 (Bernama) – The rapid rise of AI and cyber threats is now the security industry's biggest challenge, demanding a complete transformation of the security guard's role and professionalism.

Penang Security Practitioners Association (PENSEC) chairman Muhammad Shafiq Muraly Abdullah said the increasing adoption of AI in Penang's high-tech manufacturing sector has heightened security risks, particularly in the areas of data management and high-value assets.

He noted that many companies and factories in Penang are now shifting towards AI and developing high-value servers and data storage systems, a trend that brings escalating security risks.

"This is why training and skills development have become so critical for security officers and guards. At the same time, technologies like AI-powered CCTV can help reduce dependence on human labour.

"But they will not fully replace the role of security guards," he told reporters after attending the PENSEC annual general meeting and dinner, officiated by Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo last night.

Muhammad Shafiq explained that security guards today no longer just man entrances or operate boom gates. They now handle visitor management, premises monitoring, security documentation and other critical operations.

He said companies, especially in manufacturing and logistics, increasingly prefer Nepalese workers as security guards due to their discipline and strong work commitment. Still, some companies opt for local workers to avoid communication and language barriers.

Muhammad Shafiq also urged the public to drop outdated perceptions of security work as low-status. University graduates can now build careers as security managers or executives with competitive salaries.

"Some security managers at multinational companies earn between RM13,000 and RM15,000 a month because the assets and operations they protect are extremely valuable," he said.

Established in 2001, PENSEC now has nearly 200 active members. It plays a key role in strengthening the security industry through training, skills development and exposure to new technologies for security officers across various sectors.

PENSEC also runs high-quality training focused on Penang's manufacturing and supply chain sectors, which has benefited more than 2,500 security officers by enhancing their skills and career prospects.

-- BERNAMA