AWS GameDay: An exciting security challenge hosted at AWS Malaysia HQ

July 25, 2024

This article was updated on

July 25, 2024

AWS GameDay banner mentioning Deriv as a community partner and details of the event.

AWS game based learning

On 22 June 2024, Deriv, in collaboration with AWS Malaysia, hosted an exciting Security GameDay at the AWS headquarters in Kuala Lumpur. This event brought together tech enthusiasts and professionals for a day of gamified learning, where they tested their cloud computing and security skills. To prepare for the event, the Deriv security team had given a comprehensive security presentation at an AWS user group meetup two weeks prior. David Usher, VP of Engineering at Deriv, opened the event, introducing the company, its operations, and the headquarters in Cyberjaya.

David Usher, Deriv’s VP of Engineering sitting with colleagues and working on a laptop — David Usher, Deriv’s VP of Engineering, at his laptop with colleagues.

Deriv presents AWS game learning

David also highlighted the activities and responsibilities of the Deriv security team, setting the stage for the day's challenges. AWS then introduced the GameDay scenario featuring a fictional company named ‘Unicorn Rentals’ with poor security practices, leading to simulated cyberattacks on its AWS environment. Participants were tasked with providing incident responses to restore services and secure the environment, using their cloud AWS knowledge and security skills. Through interactive challenges, participants worked to address real-world cyberattack simulations, applying their skills in a practical, engaging context that fostered learning and working against the clock.

David Usher, VP of Engineering at Deriv, on stage presenting in front of an audience. — David Usher highlighting the responsibilities of Deriv’s security team.

Rich rewards at AWS GameDay KL 2024

The competition was fierce as participants strived to outdo each other to restore Unicorn Rentals' security. The top performers received exciting prizes: RM200 Grab voucher for the first place, RM100 Grab voucher for the second place, and RM50 Grab voucher for the third place. Additionally, Deriv and AWS provided merchandise, including notepads, t-shirts, and goodie bags, ensuring all participants left with memorable souvenirs. Overall, the event provided participants with a unique opportunity to learn, network, and gain valuable insights from AWS and Deriv experts, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

The first place winner is holding his prize and standing beside Deriv’s VP of Engineering. — David Usher with the first place winner.

Embracing technology integrated learning experiences

Reflecting on the AWS Security GameDay, the event was a resounding success, underscoring Deriv’s commitment to empowering the tech community and driving excellence. In today’s tech landscape, hands-on experience, knowledge sharing, and networking are crucial. As part of Deriv’s collaboration with AWS, we recently facilitated the 37th AWS meetup in Dubai, supporting community learning and engagement. Stay tuned for future opportunities to join us on similar adventures in gamified learning and professional development.

Deriv: Championing tech collaboration and academia-industry partnership

Deriv is committed to fostering a thriving tech community. We are always open to sponsoring impactful tech events and meet-ups, and we welcome opportunities to conduct knowledge-sharing sessions at leading academic institutions. If you represent an organisation or institution interested in partnering with us, please send an email to [email protected].