Awards 2025_Top_Women_in_Security_ASEAN_Region_FINAL

20 Winner’s Booklet

#TopWomeninSecurityASEAN

#WomeninSecurity

The Top Women in Security ASEAN Region awards has been established to recognize women who have advanced the security industry within the ten countries of the Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN).

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS

THANK YOU TO NATIONAL PARTNERS

THANK YOU TO OUR MEDIA PARTNERS

PRESENTS

WOMEN IN SECURITY

NETWORKING FUNCTION

Wed 12 November 2025 | From 4.30pm SGT

Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore

DELIVERY PARTNER

GALA AWARDS RECOGNITION

Wed 12 November 2025 | 6.00pm–10.00pm SGT

Monti at 1-Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, Singapore

DELIVERY PARTNER

ADELINE CHAN

Executive Director -

Technology Risk Management | DBS Bank

LAURA LEES Chief Information Security Officer, Asia Manulife

LAI LEE CHING

Principal Assistant Director (Strategic Planning), Royal Malaysia Police

PROUDLY ORGANISED BY

DIANDRA KARTIKA DEWANINGSIH

Country Security Officer | Siemens

DAVID MARTINEZ VINLUAN

Executive Director, ASEANAPOL Secretariat

THE JUDGES

ADELINE CHAN

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

TECHNOLOGY RISK

MANAGEMENT, DBS BANK |

SINGAPORE

THE JUDGES

LAURA LEES

CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY

OFFICER, ASIA MANULIFE |

SINGAPORE

THE JUDGES

LAI LEE CHING

PRINCIPAL

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

(STRATEGIC PLANNING), ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE, MALAYSIA

THE JUDGES

DIANDRA KARTIKA

COUNTRY SECURITY OFFICER | SIEMENS, INDONESIA

THE JUDGES

DAVID MARTINEZ

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ASEANAPOL SECRETARIAT | MALAYSIA

Congratulations to the Country Award Winners for 2025

Special thanks to all nominators!

TOP

20 FINALISTS (Alphabetical Order)

SALIZA ABDULLAH

MANAGING DIRECTOR | BERANI GUARD SDN BHD MALAYSIA

THE TOP 20

Saliza Abdullah is the Managing Director of Berani Guard, a subsidiary of BG Capital Holdings Group of Companies (BGCH) — an integrated security and safety solutions provider advocating sustainability and impact. BGCH is a signatory of the UN Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs), championing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5, 11, and 17. With over 20 years of experience, Saliza is a multi-award-winning second-generation entrepreneur, recognized for her advocacy in women’s empowerment, leadership in security, and family business sustainability. She has authored articles, appeared on TV and radio, and spoken at global platforms including the prestigious St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) 2025 in Russia.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

Accenture

MANAGING DIRECTOR I

BERANI GUARD SDN BHD MALAYSIA

In 2025, as Organizing Chairperson, she successfully organized the Inaugural Women in Security Conference (WISC), officiated by the Minister of Women, Family and Community Development, YB Dato’ Sri Hajah Nancy Shukri. Held in Cyberjaya, the conference carried the theme “Shaping the Future of Security”, highlighting women’s leadership across cybersecurity, law enforcement, and physical security. The initiative aligned with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship 2025 and the National Women’s Policy 2025–2030, under the pillars of Leadership, Economy, and Security. Her earlier contributions include the article “Equality Means Business: Advocating Women’s Empowerment Principles in the Male-Dominated Security Industry” (Australian Women in Security Magazine, 2021). Under her leadership, BGCH became the first Malaysian SME to win the UN Women Asia-Pacific WEPs Award (2020) for Industry and Community Engagement.

Marking BGCH’s 30th anniversary, she authored “Growing a Sustainable Family Business” (2022), which sold over 1,500 copies in its first year. Saliza currently serves as Acting President of the National Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Malaysia (NAWEM) and Deputy Focal Point of the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network (AWEN) Malaysia.

AKARSHA REDDY PALLE

TECHNOLOGY RISK SPEACIALIST | ASB BANK

NEW ZEALAND

THE TOP 20

AKARSHA REDDY PALLE

Akarsha Palle is a dedicated cybersecurity professional with four years of experience specialising in Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC). With expertise across PCI DSS, ISO 27001, NIST CSF, and SOC-2, she has established herself as a trusted advisor, particularly in PCI DSS compliance. Akarsha’s career spans both consulting and in-house roles, giving her a broad, strategic view of cybersecurity. She has successfully led multiple audit life cycles, delivering actionable recommendations that strengthen client compliance and resilience.

Her rapid career growth reflects her dedication, technical capability, and leadership. Beyond her technical expertise, Akarsha is passionate about advancing women in cybersecurity. As a Board Member for ISACA Auckland and SheLeadsTech Auckland, she actively drives diversity, inclusion, and security awareness initiatives. Her influence extends to research and thought leadership. She has published work on SSDP DRDoS attack mitigation in IEEE, regularly writes on security frameworks and compliance, and shares practical insights through LinkedIn and her blog, reaching a global audience. A strong advocate for mentorship, she guides peers on career development, networking, and job readiness, empowering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Actively engaged with ISACA,ISC2, and major security conferences in New Zealand, Akarsha stays at the forefront of industry trends while contributing to community growth. Her blend of technical expertise, community involvement and advocacy makes her a standout finalist for the Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Awards.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

SURIRANI ALI

DEPUTY HEAD OF CRIME INVESTIGATION DEPARTMENT |

ROYAL MALAYSIAN POLICE MALAYSIA

SAFINA AMIR

MANAGING DIRECTOR & COO | SPEEQR UNITED KINGDOM

THE TOP 20

& COO I SPEEQR

Safina Amir is a force of change in cybersecurity - an industry where women remain underrepresented, but where her voice, leadership, and vision have become impossible to ignore. As Chief Operating Officer of Veiliux and Speeqr’s Managing Director, she leads with transformation at the core, blending strategy and innovation with a powerful focus on people. Beyond her corporate role, Safina is a visible advocate for women’s empowerment insecurity. Through mentorship programs, speaking engagements, and community initiatives, she has opened doors for women across the ASEAN region, championing equal opportunity in a space long dominated by men. Her work doesn’t stop at today’s workforce—she is equally passionate about tomorrow’s, driving initiatives that promote STEM education to inspire young women to pursue careers in technology and cybersecurity.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

On stage, Safina is known for her bold, thought-provoking talks that challenge industry norms and spotlight empathy as a driver of innovation. Whether addressing global conferences or grassroots programs, her message is clear: diversity and inclusion are not just ideals, but necessities for building stronger, safer digital futures. Her journey—from co-leading Speeqr, a secure communications platform, to shaping strategy at Veiliux—reflects resilience, vision, and a commitment to leaving cybersecurity more inclusive than she found it. Safina Amir exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose: solving problems through innovation while empowering people. She is not only securing the digital world but also ensuring that women and girls have the tools, role models, and opportunities to shape it

RHOAN JOY CABUSI

POLICE MAJOR PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE | SPECIAL ACTION FORCE

PHILIPPINES

THE TOP 20

With 18 years of active and dedicated service in the Philippine National Police, she is currently assigned at the Philippine Bomb Data Center under the Directorate for Intelligence, holding a challenging designation as the Chief of the Strategic Information and Technical Intelligence Section. In this capacity, she leads the collation, analysis and exploitation of intelligence data pertaining to Explosive Related Incidents local and International to produce timely assessments that support law enforcement operations, and enhance national security decision -making, she embodies both operational competence and leadership excellence. Her distinguished career is marked by ground-breaking and operational excellence.

She made history as the first female Company Commander of the PNP Special Action Force EOD/K9 Unit and served as Course Director for three specialised courses that produced 120 EOD Technicians and 24 K9 Handlers along with Explosive Detection Dogs who continue to strengthen the country’s counter-IED capabilities. She also spearheaded numerous EOD/K9 operations nationwide, ensuring public safety and reinforcing national security. As a mentor, she continues to guide EOD/K9 personnel, supporting their professional growth and helping them make sound decisions even in the most critical situations. Beyond tactical leadership, she served as Chief of the Family, Juvenile, and Gender and Development Section, of SAF where she championed gender-responsive policing. She initiated programs for women police officers focused on leadership development, worklifebalance, and equal opportunities. She also spearheaded empowerment activities, capacity-building initiatives, and institutionalised GAD best practices within SAF. Notably, she sustained the “Adopt-a-Child” and “PulisKo, TitserKo” programs, extending support to 56 vulnerable students from June 2024 to July 2025.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

Accenture

These initiatives were strategically implemented to prevent youth radicalisation by fostering education, resilience, and strong police-community partnerships. Her exemplary contributions have earned her numerous recognitions, including being honored as one of the PNP Juanas with Good Deeds Awardees in 2024, a distinction that underscores her unwavering dedication to service, mentorship, and inclusive leadership.

DR PHAIK KIN CHEAH

PROFESSOR, LANCE CORPORAL (POLICE VOLUNTEER RESERVE)

UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN – ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE

THE TOP 20

DR PHAIK KIN CHEAH

PROFESSOR, LANCE CORPORAL

(POLICE VOLUNTEER RESERVE) UNIVERSITY TUNKU ABDUL

Prof. Dr. Phaik Kin Cheah is a Malaysian academic and volunteer police officer recognized for bridging research with frontline public safety and community engagement. She is a Professor at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and has served as a volunteer police officer with the Royal Malaysia Police Volunteer Reserve since 2014.

She authored Malaysia’s first academic study on volunteer police, establishing her as a pioneer in this field. Her research on policing across Malaysia, the U.S., and the U.K. has been published in respected international journals. She contributed to the Routledge International Handbook of Policing Crises and Emergencies and is guest editor of an upcoming Oxford University Press journal issue on volunteer policing across the world.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

In 2025, Prof. Cheah spearheaded an anti–job scam awareness campaign in collaboration with ASEANAPOL, the Malaysian Crime Prevention Foundation, and global partners. Developed and implemented together with her undergraduate students, the initiative engaged communities across ASEAN through digital outreach and media engagement.

She holds advisory and visiting roles at the University of Virginia, University of Central Florida, University of Northampton (UK), and the U.S.-based Volunteer Law Enforcement Officers Alliance. She also speaks at global forums, including Police Scotland and the UK’s Association of Special Constabulary Officers. Prof. Cheah’s career reflects a commitment to community resilience, crossborder collaboration, and evidence-based policing. Through her dual service as a scholar and practitioner, she is a respected voice in advancing security strategy not only in Malaysia and the ASEAN region, but also in international policing and academic communities worldwide.

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER | CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI BRUNEI

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER |

CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI

BRUNEI

THE TOP 20

Zara is a Cyber Security Officer with the Information Technology Protective Security Services (ITPSS). Her work focuses on strengthening Brunei’s digital resilience and nurturing the next generation of security professionals, as she also serves as a Teaching Assistant at Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD), supporting modules in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and blockchain. Alongside her professional duties, Zara is pursuing a PhD in Cybersecurity and Forensics.

Beyond her core role, she represents Cyber Security Brunei (CSB) on public awareness and capacity-building initiatives. She maintains a national and international presence as a speaker and advocate. She has made recurring contributions at the Google DevFest, the Brunei Mid-Year Conference and Exhibition (MYCE), Girls in ICT Brunei, Brunei’s first Cyber Security Conference, Cyber Battle: Capture the Flag, and BruCERT’s Women in Cybersecurity webinars. Her sessions emphasise leadership, ethics, and inclusion in technology. Her contributions in cybersecurity have also been profiled in the national newspaper.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

In 2024, she was selected for the Women in Foreign Policy Fellowship: Southeast Asia Edition, recognised at the Brunei ICT Awards, and contributed an article on Brunei’s cybersecurity landscape in collaboration with FACTS Asia and the East-West Center in Washington. She has also been invited as a speaker for the ASEAN for the Peoples Conference to share her expertise in digital safety.

Committed to empowering the next generation, Zara mentors students and champions pathways for Bruneian women to lead in cybersecurity and technology to help build an inclusive, secure digital future for Brunei Darussalam and the wider ASEAN region.

MAE ANN CUNANAN

POLICE MAJOR | PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE

PHILIPPINES

MAE ANN CUNANAN

THE TOP 20

Police Major Mae Ann Raguine Cunanan of the Philippine National Police is a distinguished leader renowned for her impactful contributions to national security and international law enforcement collaboration. She led the case against a suspected foreign intelligence operative involved in cyber intrusion activities, uncovering foreign threats that risked digital sovereignty. Her collaboration with international agencies strengthened the Philippines' strategic stance in cyberspace, elevating its profile within global cybersecurity communities.

Major Cunanan’s dedication to combating human trafficking is equally notable. In 2024, she developed a strategic plan and contributed to one of the largest rescue operations in Philippine history, recovering 280 trafficked individuals. Her holistic approach emphasised inter-agency and international cooperation, setting new standards for victim protection and cross-border justice.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

Her efforts fostered extensive transnational collaboration, bolstering the Philippines’ reputation as a proactive leader in anti-trafficking initiatives. Her participation in the 2025 U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) deepened her expertise in victim-centered strategies and technological innovations, which she is now integrating into the Philippine Police frameworks.

A role model for diversity and inclusion, Major Cunanan challenges gender stereotypes and inspires women in law enforcement. Her unwavering commitment has earned her multiple awards, including the Metrobank Outstanding Filipino Award (2023) and recognition as Outstanding Woman in Law Enforcement (2024). She approaches every mission with integrity, vision, and dedication, strengthening the Philippines’ position as a committed partner in global security.

LEADER | TRANSURBAN AUSTRALIA

THE TOP 20

Reshma is an experienced Risk Specialist in Data and AI, Security, and Technology. She holds a Master’s in Information Technology and is a Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE).With a passion for AI and emerging technologies, Reshma has over20 years of experience working in Australia and New Zealand, focusing strongly on Data Security and emerging data challenges .

Reshma chairs the Advisory Board for anon-profit organization and is a Board Member at Lutheran Education. She serves as a Board Member and Research Director at ISACA Melbourne, and previously as a Diversity Director overseeing OneInTech and SheLeadsTech.

She is also ISACA’s CDPSE Manual Subject Matter Expert Reviewer and regularly contributes to blogs, podcasts, and magazines. Reshma regularly speaks at industry conferences and panels on topics such as responsible AI, data governance, and women in tech leadership. Her work has contributed to shaping policy discussions around responsible AI and digital trust in Australia and New Zealand. She is also involved in academic collaborations, contributing to research on AI ethics and data resilience.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

Reshma is a Certified Practitioner and a Self-awareness Leadership Coach. Her passion for leadership has driven her to assist women in leadership roles and work on numerous women-led initiatives. She mentors emerging leaders and actively supports career transitions for women moving from middle management to executive roles. Her main focus areas are self-awareness, integrity, and effectiveness, which she believes are crucial for enhancing individual performance, influence, and leadership abilities.

JEAN FAJARDO

POLICE BRIGADIER GENERAL PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE

PHILIPPINES

JEAN FAJARDO

POLICE BRIFADIER

GENERAL PHILIPPINE

NATIONAL POLICE PHILIPPINES

THE TOP 20

Police Brigadier General Jean Salvador Fajardo is the current Director for Comptrollership of the Philippine National Police, while concurrently serving as the organization’s Spokesperson. She continues to make history as a trailblazer and role model for women in law enforcement.

Born in Manila as the youngest of three children of Mr. and Mrs. Cayetano de Leon Fajardo, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Communication from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, graduated from the PNPA Kaagapay Class of 1996, and completed her law degree at Jose Rizal University, becoming a member of the Philippine Bar in 2009.

Throughout her 30-year police service, PBGEN Fajardo has exemplified competence, discipline, and integrity in various key positions. She previously served as Chief of Police of Lubao and San Fernando City, Provincial Director of Pampanga, Chief of the Regional Intelligence Division of PRO3, and Deputy Director for Operations of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

Her career is defined by historic milestones: the first female “Lakan Lawyer,” first female Provincial Director of Pampanga, first woman to head a Regional Intelligence Division, first female Regional Director in the PNP when she led Police Regional Office 3, first female PNP Spokesperson and Chief of the Public Information Office, and the longest-serving PNP Spokesperson in history, where she enhanced public trust by countering misinformation.

PBGEN Fajardo has been recognized with numerous awards, including Outstanding Public Communicator (Gawad Parangal 2024), Achievement Award in Law Enforcement (Jose Rizal University, 2024), and Outstanding Woman in Law Enforcement and National Security (OWLENS) 2025. Her professional journey stands as a testament to excellence, integrity, and public service.

PHAN HAI HA

CYBER INVESTIGATION SPECIALIST | GROUP IB

VIETNAM

PHAN HAI HAI

CYBER INVESTIGATION

SPECIALIST I GROUP IB

VIETNAM

THE TOP 20

Hai Ha Phan is a Cyber Investigation Specialist at Group-IB’s Vietnam office with over three years of experience addressing cyber threats across Vietnam and the APAC region. She works closely with law enforcement to combat cybercrime, helping organizations remain resilient against evolving digital risks.

In her role, Hai Ha applies diverse investigative techniques to track and deanonymize threat actors, tackling online fraud, system intrusions, disinformation campaigns, malware distribution, and reputation-related attacks. She also monitors cybercrime activities on the Dark Web, handling cases involving leaked databases, illicit cryptocurrency transactions, and underground attack services.

Passionate about technology-driven investigations, she actively researches emerging tactics and evasion techniques to enhance detection and investigative practices. In 2024, Hai Ha supported multiple law enforcement cases on data breaches, cryptocurrency scams, and fraudulent social media activity. She contributed to international initiatives with INTERPOL, including Operation Synergia I and II, which successfully disrupted malicious infrastructures across the APAC region. Beyond investigations, in 2024, she has published numerous GroupIB technical blogs, offering insights into profitable information-stealing malware operations in Vietnam as well as advanced evasion techniques used in global phishing campaigns.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

Accenture

Hai Ha holds a Master’s degree in Computer Security, awarded through a government-funded scholarship from Vietnam. Recognised in the Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Awards 2024, she continues to contribute to cyber investigations, training, and international cooperation. Guided by the principle “Never limit your potential,” Hai Ha is committed to advancing investigative practices, fostering stronger regional collaboration, and inspiring more women to pursue careers in cybersecurity. In 2025, she aims to broaden her technical research and actively share professional expertise with analysts, with a particular focus on addressing emerging security trends and evolving cybercrime tactics.

SITI KAMSIAH HASSAN

PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR | ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE MALAYSIA

SITI KAMSIAH HASSEN

PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR I

ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE

MALAYSIA

THE TOP 20

Senior Assistant Commissioner (SAC) Siti Kamsiah binti Hassan is the Principal Assistant Director of the Sexual, Women and Child Investigation Division (D11) at the Royal Malaysia Police Headquarters. With more than three decades of service, she has risen through the ranks to become a leading voice in law enforcement, dedicated to protecting women, children, and vulnerable groups from sexual crimes, exploitation, and abuse.

A reformist and strategist, SAC Siti Kamsiah spearheaded the institutional strengthening of D11 and was the driving force behind the establishment of the Malaysian Internet Crime Against Children (MICAC) Unit under her division. Through her vision, D11 has enhanced its digital forensic and cybercrime capabilities, positioning Malaysia at the forefront of child protection efforts in Southeast Asia. Her leadership extends beyond policing into national governance. She has been actively involved in numerous committees and high-level working groups addressing child protection, domestic violence, sexual harassment, and other systemic issues. She has contributed significantly to shaping national policies and reforms, ensuring a survivor-centered and justice-driven approach.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

Internationally, SAC Siti Kamsiah represents Malaysia on the Violent Crimes Against Children International Task Force under the U.S. Department of Justice and also plays a central role in fostering daily police-to-police and NGO cooperation worldwide. Under her leadership, D11 has built strong operational partnerships that have dismantled transnational exploitation networks, rescued victims, and strengthened global child protection frameworks.

Respected as a bold reformer and empathetic leader, SAC Siti Kamsiah exemplifies dedication, integrity, and courage in advancing security and justice across ASEAN and beyond.

VESTA MATVEEVA

APAC HEAD OF HIGH-TECH CRIME

INVESTIGATION DEPARTMENT | GROUP-IB

SINGAPORE

THE TOP 20

VESTA MATVEEVA

APAC HEAD OF HIGH-TECH

CRIME INVESTIGATION

DEPARTMENT I GROUP-IB

Vesta Matveeva is the APAC Head of High-Tech Crime Investigation Department at Singapore-based Group-IB, a leading creator of cybersecurity technologies to investigate, prevent and fight cybercrime. Vesta leads a team of cyber investigators who share the main mission of Group-IB – fight against cybercrime.

She has spearheaded investigations involving financially motivated and state-sponsored APT groups on an international scale. Her relentless pursuit of justice and unwavering dedication and perseverance in tackling the most complex cybercrimes have led to numerous high-profile arrests. Her recent cases in the APAC region include identifying threat actors behind database leaks sold on the Dark Web, uncovering phishing campaigns, tracking the spread of Android banking trojans in the region, investigating investment-scam activities, and combating ransomware attacks.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

Vesta notably played a pivotal role in joint operations with INTERPOL, the Singapore Police Force, the Hong Kong Police Force, etc. Her efforts assisted in apprehending part of the criminal group responsible for distributing malware, conducting phishing campaigns, and orchestrating extensive Business Email Compromise attacks.

Vesta holds a scientific degree, and her current passion is to leverage her extensive experience in applying ML techniques to expedite cyber investigations in the Dark Web and to enhance anti-fraud solutions. Vesta also regularly conducts extensive training in cyber investigations for cybersecurity specialists such as SOC and Threat Intelligence teams as well as police agencies.

NATALIE HINGCO PEREZ

GROUP TECHNOLOGY AUDIT MANAGER | IAG AUSTRALIA

THE TOP 20

NATALIE HINGCO PEREZ

Natalie Hingco Perez is a respected cybersecurity leader with more than 15 years’ experience in assurance, risk, and internal audit within the financial services sector. Her career journey has been anything but straightforward. Armed with an Accountancy degree, Natalie began her professional life in finance before transitioning into technology roles as a business analyst and developer—an evolution that reflects her adaptability and determination to embrace change.

Originally from the Philippines, Natalie migrated to Australia and has since built a career that combines technical expertise with strategic leadership. A Platinum ISACA member since 2004, she serves as a Board Member and Director of Professional Development for ISACA Melbourne, where she champions initiatives that strengthen the profession and foster diversity. Her leadership in delivering the Beyond Tomorrow Conference brought together global experts and created opportunities for 15 university students to gain hands-on experience and industry connections.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

Natalie’s technical credentials include CISA, CRISC, and CRMA, reinforcing her expertise in governance, risk, and compliance.

PAUVKANCHANA PHAUK

DEPUTY CHIEF OFFICER | MINISTRY OF INTERIOR CAMBODIA

PAUVKANCHANA

PHAUK

DEPUTY CHIEF OFFICER I MINISTRY OF INTERIOR CAMBODIA

THE TOP 20

Phauk Pauvkanchana is a dedicated policewoman born in Battambang province, Cambodia, in 1984. Growing up in a tight-knit community, she developed a strong sense of justice and compassion, leading her to join the Cambodian National Police in 2009. Known for her integrity and sharp investigative skills, Phauk quickly rose to the rank of deputy chief officer. With a distinguished career in law enforcement, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing justice, security, and digital governance.

She has enriched her expertise through diverse international training programs, reflecting both her dedication to professional growth and contribution to strengthening Cambodia’s law enforcement capacity. In 2017, she completed advanced training in Information Technology in Law Enforcement in India, followed by specialized training in 2018 on the Investigation of White-Collar Crime, also in India. Recognizing the evolving demands of leadership in the digital era, she attended the “Leadership 4.0: Management and Governance in the Emerging World of Digital Leadership” program in 2024.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

Accenture

Furthering her international experience, she completed the Training of Trainers for Formed Police Units in Indonesia (2024), a Forced Labour Course in Thailand (2024), and most recently, the Policing Innovation and Leadership program in Dubai (2025). Each program has strengthened her capacity to address transnational challenges, implement modern policing strategies, and mentor the next generation of law enforcement officers in the digital world.

Through her commitment to lifelong learning, regional cooperation, and forward-looking leadership, she exemplifies the values of resilience, professionalism, and innovation in policing. Her dedication continues to contribute to building a safer and more just society.

VIJAYA PONNIAH

PROJECT MANAGER | STD CHARTERED GBS MALAYSIA

THE TOP 20

With my >20 years of IT experience working in many diversified back grounds and holding a Master’s degree in Management, while being a Prince2 certified candidate, would truly enable you to add a performance-driven professional to your team and can begin being productive at once.

Throughout my career I have demonstrated a tremendous ability to support and maintain numerous business objectives. I am seeking new professional challenges and am eager to put my knowledge towards the growth and development of your organization.

AIMI RAMLEE

DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION & GROWTH, CO-FOUNDER | TYNE SOLUTIONS BRUNEI

AIMI RAMLEE

DIRECTOR OF

INNOVATION & GROWTH, CO-FOUNDER I TYNE SOLUTIONS BRUNEI

THE TOP 20

Aimi Ramlee is a cybersecurity and digital innovation expert with 13+ years of experience in technology,entrepreneurship, and consulting. As Co-founder and Director at Tyne Solutions, she leads secure cloudoperations, modular ERPs, and bespoke software using proprietary AI-enhanced tools.

She has empowered nearly 300 organisations through digital security training, strategy, and implementation, including UNCTAD and the iDEAS project.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

An Asia 21 Leader, UK-Southeast Asia Women in Cyber Fellow, Obama Foundation Leader and award-winning entrepreneur, Aimi advocates for digital inclusion. She serves on several boards, including as VP of the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei, and ExCo members of Football Association Brunei Darussalam, Brunei CyberSecurity Association and ASEAN CIO Association (AI, Robotics & Blockchain), and advises regional women’s leadership programmes, speaking globally on making cybersecurity accessible and the digital economy.

Accenture

JESSICA TEDJA

CYBER INVESTIGATION SPECIALIST | GROUP-IB SINGAPORE

JESSICA TEDJA

CYBER INVESTIGATION

SPECIALIST | GROUP-IB SINGAPORE

THE TOP 20

Jessica Tedja is an Indonesian cyber investigation specialist at Group-IB, with expertise in threat intelligence; a proven track record of identifying, tracking, and deanonymizing threat actors involved in various cybercrimes like data breaches, phishing attacks, malware trojans, and ransomware. Her investigations cover the APAC region, including taking the lead on cases from Indonesia.

With over 30 high-profile cases under her belt, she has contributed significantly to investigations in countries including Singapore, Indonesia, and South Korea. She played a pivotal role in joint operations with INTERPOL and APAC law enforcement agencies, particularly during Operation Synergia I and Synergia II. Jessica actively explores digital forensics and contributes to the development of Group-IB’s automation system for investigation, Graph, which significantly enhanced both the speed and effectiveness of cyber investigations.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY

Accenture

Drawing on her practical expertise, she has co-authored training modules on OSINT and cyber investigations for law enforcement, government agencies, and banks. She most recently conducted training for an Indonesian government agency.

She recently wrote a research blog on the threat actor DESORDEN, whose victims include organiSations in Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, the United States, and Canada. This threat actor was arrested during a joint operation between the Royal Thai Police and the Singapore Police Force.

LENA (LAMBDAMAMBA) YU

FOUNDER | WORLD HEALTH AND MALWARE VILLAGE

UNITED KINGDOM

THE TOP 20

Lena Yu, also known as LambdaMamba, is the CEO and founder of World Cyber Health and Malware Village. She created the Malmons, aka Malware Monsters, has authored research papers for numerous conferences, taught at top universities, won research awards, is the author of the upcoming book “The (Un)Natural History of Malware,” and is an international keynote speaker.

Lena founded Malware Village at DEF CON and various conferences worldwide to give malware analysts a home. Before founding Malware Village, Lena was a malware researcher at ANY.RUN, and before specialiSing in malware, she worked in computer architecture, compiler research, and chip design.

ABBY ZHANG

SHELEADSTECH REGIONAL ADVOCATES OCEANIA

NEW ZEALAND

THE TOP 20

Abby Zhang, CISA, CDPSE, PMP, is a senior security analyst at Lightspeed Commerce, specializing in technology risk, cloud security, DFIR, and the evolving fields of AI risk, assurance, and security. Passionate about advancing women in the industry, Abby proudly serves as a 2025 SheLeadsTech Regional Advocate for Oceania.

A dedicated ISACA volunteer since 2018, Abby has made significant contributions at both local and global levels. Her leadership in member engagement and academic partnerships was instrumental in ISACA Auckland receiving the 2024 Innovative Chapter Program Award. She is a key contributor to ISACA's global knowledge development, serving as a 2025 ISACA COBIT Work Group Member and a Subject Matter Expert for the Securing AI certification. She has also reviewed numerous professional manuals and audit programs.

SENIOR CLOUD SECURITY Accenture

Her leadership and expertise have been recognized with numerous honours, including the DEFSEC Women in Security Rising Star Award (2022), back-to-back NZ Women in Security Best Volunteer Awards (2022 & 2023), and the 2024 Reseller News WIICTA Women in ICT – Technical Award.

CATEGORY AWARD WINNERS

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Risk & Resilience Award

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Risk & Resilience Award

RESHMA DEVI

AI & DATA RISK LEADER | TRANSURBAN AUSTRALIA

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Cyber Security Award

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Cyber Security Award

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER | CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI BRUNEI

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Cyber Risk Leader

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region

Cyber Risk Leader

RESHMA DEVI

AI & DATA RISK LEADER | TRANSURBAN AUSTRALIA

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Security Researcher Award

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Security Researcher Award

DR PHAIK KIN CHEAH

PROFESSOR, UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN

LANCE CORPORAL – ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE (POLICE VOLUNTEER RESERVE)

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Security Trainer & Educator Award

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region

Security Trainer & Educator Award

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER | CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI BRUNEI

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Security Professional Ambassador

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region

Security Professional Ambassador

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER | CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI BRUNEI

COUNTRY AWARD WINNERS

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region – Country Award

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Country Award - Singapore

JESSICA TEDJA

CYBER INVESTIGATION SPECIALIST | GROUP-IB SINGAPORE

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region – Country Award

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region

Country Award - Brunei

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER | CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI BRUNEI

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region – Country Award Malaysia

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Country Award - Malaysia

DR PHAIK KIN CHEAH

PROFESSOR, LANCE CORPORAL

(POLICE VOLUNTEER RESERVE) UNIVERSITI TUNKU ABDUL

RAHMAN – ROYAL MALAYSIA POLICE

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region – Country Award Cambodia

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Country Award - Cambodia

PAUVKANCHANA PHAUK

DEPUTY CHIEF OFFICER | MINISTRY OF INTERIOR CAMBODIA

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region – Country Award Philippines

Top Woman in Security ASEAN Region Country Award - Philippines

POLICE MAJOR | PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE PHILIPPINES

Top Women in Security ASEAN Region Country Award - Vietnam

HA PHAN HAI

CYBER INVESTIGATION SPECIALIST

GROUP-IB

VIETNAM

Top Woman in Security ASEAN Region

Top Woman in Security ASEAN Region

ZARA LAILA CHEONG

CYBER SECURITY OFFICER | CYBER SECURITY BRUNEI BRUNEI

Congratulations to our Top 20 Finalists for 2025

Special thanks to all nominators!

ADELINE CHAN

Executive DirectorTechnology Risk Management | DBS Bank

LAURA LEES Chief Information Security Officer, Asia Manulife

LAI LEE CHING

Principal Assistant Director (Strategic Planning), Royal Malaysia Police

PROUDLY ORGANISED BY

DIANDRA KARTIKA DEWANINGSIH

Country Security Officer | Siemens

DAVID MARTINEZ VINLUAN Executive Director, ASEANAPOL Secretariat

THANK YOU TO OUR SUPPORTERS

THANK YOU TO NATIONAL PARTNERS

THANK YOU TO OUR MEDIA PARTNERS

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