The initiative was launched during a specialized event hosted at the Chamber’s headquarters on Tuesday, attended by representatives from the public and private sectors, as well as cybersecurity and digital transformation experts. The initiative supports national efforts to raise cybersecurity awareness and strengthen the private sector’s ability to address growing cyber risks, thereby supporting business continuity and protecting Bahrain’s digital economy.
The event also marked the launch of an integrated training programme designed to equip technical and non-technical employees of MSMEs with practical cybersecurity knowledge and promote the adoption of secure digital practices.
H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the National Cyber Security Centre, said the programme reflects the commitment of relevant authorities to supporting MSMEs as a key pillar of the national economy. He noted that the initiative aims to enhance their cybersecurity readiness and provide them with the knowledge and practical skills needed to adopt safer and more sustainable digital practices.
He added that the programme supports national efforts to build cybersecurity capabilities and aligns with the objectives of the National Cybersecurity Strategy. It also contributes to strengthening Bahrain’s performance in international cybersecurity indicators, including the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index, by expanding national awareness, training and institutional capacity-building efforts.
For his part, Yousef Salahuddin, First Vice Chairman of Bahrain Chamber, affirmed that cybersecurity has become a fundamental pillar of a modern and sustainable economy. Beyond its technical dimension, it is essential to protecting businesses, maintaining a stable business environment and strengthening trust in the digital economy, particularly amid rapid digital transformation and evolving cyber threats.
He noted that MSMEs are among the sectors most exposed to cyberattacks, underscoring the need to strengthen their preparedness and provide them with practical tools and solutions to manage cyber risks effectively and ensure business continuity.
Salahuddin reaffirmed BCCI’s commitment, as the representative of the private sector and a key partner in supporting the national economy, to advancing cybersecurity initiatives, promoting international best practices, strengthening secure digital infrastructure and raising institutional awareness of data and digital systems protection.
During the event, BCCI also highlighted its key cybersecurity achievements during the previous term, including obtaining ISO 27001 certification for its Information Security Management System, as well as its Information Technology team securing first place in the National Cybersecurity Exercise at the government sector level, reflecting the Chamber’s institutional readiness and commitment to recognized technical standards.
