SINGAPORE - Singtel will invest up to US$50 million (S$63.9 million) over the next five years together with global cyber security leader FireEye to go on the offensive against cyber attackers.

They will build special centres in Singapore and in Australia that can detect malicious software, or malware in short, and take immediate proactive actions before any attacks begin.

Up to 150 cyber security professionals will also be trained by FireEye cybercrime experts to detect, track and fight the cyber attacks. They will work in the Advanced Security Operation Centres (ASOCs) that will be set up in Singapore and Australia.

SingTel's chief executive for group enterprise Bill Chang said that the first centre will open in Singapore early next year. It will be located in a SingTel facility.

Together with FireEye, SingTel will offer managed security services to customers in the Asia-Pacific, as well as in countries where the telco has a presence, such as in Africa. The duo will share revenues from this new service.

"FireEye is a global leader in cybersecurity. This strategic partnership will raise awareness of cybersecurity and enhance the ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific," said Mr Chang.

"We're combining our strengths in our IT services and extensive telecom infrastructure with FireEye's expertise in cyber attacks to offer customers a proactive approach to fighting cybercrime."

He was speaking to Singapore media via a conference call from Washington DC together with FireEye's chief executive David DeWalt.