Penang: Global cybersecurity and digital privacy company Kaspersky and Digital Penang have entered into a strategic collaboration to strengthen digital trust among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Penang, supporting the state's efforts to build a trusted and resilient digital economy. According to BERNAMA News Agency, in a joint statement, both organisations highlighted that many MSMEs face challenges in balancing business growth with cybersecurity readiness. Through the initiative, MSMEs will have access to cybersecurity resources and solutions designed to help protect their operations, data, and digital assets against evolving cyber threats. The partnership aligns with Penang's next phase of its digital transformation journey under the Penang Digital Economy Master Plan 2025-2030, which aims to increase the digital economy's contribution to the state's gross domestic product (GDP) from RM116 billion in 2023 to RM156 billion by 2030. As more businesses integrate digital technologies into thei r operations, a trusted digital ecosystem will be a core enabler of competitiveness and long-term growth. In 2025 alone, more than 3,300 SMEs benefited from Digital Penang's digitalisation efforts. As businesses become increasingly reliant on digital technologies for daily operations, cybersecurity is emerging as an important consideration for organisations of all sizes. Kaspersky Security Network (KSN) detected more than 3.3 million web-based attacks targeting businesses in Malaysia in 2025, ranking Malaysia as the second most targeted market in Southeast Asia. These threats include compromised websites, malicious downloads, and other online attacks that can expose sensitive information, disrupt operations, or provide unauthorised access to business systems. Supporting the partnership is Meta Splendors Sdn Bhd, a technology solutions provider with expertise in cybersecurity and digital transformation. The company will play a key role in expanding access to trusted solutions, practical resources, and local expertise for Penang's MSMEs as they continue to strengthen their digital capabilities.