Background
Originally introduced as national cybersecurity standards by Singapore’s Cyber Security Agency (CSA) in 2021, Cyber Essentials and Cyber Trust are now being adopted by organizations beyond Singapore, with active certifications growing from over 50 in 2022 to more than 650 by 2025
Why International Companies Are Adopting CTM
Across Asia, organizations are turning to CTM and Cyber Essentials to anchor trust in cross-border operations:
• Japan: A Japanese OT solutions firm highlighted that achieving Cyber Trust (OT) certification demonstrated that even complex, “impossible” operational challenges could be secured and made compliant.
• China & Hong Kong: Professional services firms supporting clients operating between Hong Kong and China emphasised that consistent, recognised cybersecurity standards give clients peace of mind when data flows across jurisdictions.
• Malaysia & Brunei: Companies adopting Cyber Essentials cited stronger foundational controls against common cyber threats, improved audit readiness, and greater confidence when working with regional partners, especially those linked to Singapore.
Benefit
Per the CSA 2025 report, certified organizations consistently highlight:
• Strengthens client and partner trust
• Supports internal and external compliance requirements
• Enhances eligibility for corporate and government contracts
• Reduces legal, financial, and operational cyber risks
Why This Matters Now
Cyber threats don’t respect borders. Whether you’re a consultancy in China, a tech firm in Japan, or a service provider in Malaysia, adopting a recognized, structured cybersecurity standard signals seriousness, professionalism, and long-term readiness. CTM and Cyber Essentials provide a practical, scalable pathway to do exactly that.
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Sources: Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (https://www.csa.gov.sg/)
