Malaysia’s cybersecurity still weak compared to other countries, says Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR: Cybersecurity should be prioritized as Malaysia remains weaker in this area compared to other countries, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

According to Bernama, he stated that addressing this issue requires extensive training, expertise, and collaboration with cybersecurity intelligence agencies.

Anwar noted that several decisive measures are needed, including upcoming regulations aimed at combating online crime and cyberbullying, to create a safer online environment for users.

“Among the actions taken by the government is the introduction of the Cybersecurity Bill. Recently, Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil and Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo have focused on ensuring online safety for both domestic and international users,” he said.

He made these remarks during his speech at the launch of National Security Month 2024 today.

Last Sunday, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said announced that new legislation to enhance digital security, including provisions on protocols and enforcement of kill switch regulations, will be presented in Parliament this October.

She mentioned that the new law will also place responsibility on social media and internet service providers to tackle online crimes such as fraud, cyberbullying, the dissemination of child sexual abuse material, and harassment.

Meanwhile, Anwar urged the public not to underestimate the importance of national defense, noting that some citizens might feel complacent about national security due to the current peaceful conditions, adequate food supply, impressive economic growth, decreasing unemployment rates, and increasing foreign investment.

He emphasized that while economic growth is important, it should not overshadow national security concerns, including proper values and governance within security forces, which also encompasses transparent procurement practices—an essential aspect of national security.

“If the goal is to ensure national security, then procurement methods must be responsible. Sometimes procurement is meant to ensure security, but the purchasing process itself leads to significant leakages, and this must be stopped,” he said.

Regarding the South China Sea issue, Anwar remarked that Malaysia’s relationships with the United States, China, and Western countries remain strong, despite international reports suggesting provocations and violations of rules by China.

“We do not follow foreign diplomatic frameworks blindly. We determine our own national interests and strategies. To date, we have not faced threats that we find concerning.

“Although Western media may emphasize provocations and rule violations by China, our relationship with China shows that all issues can be resolved through orderly and respectful negotiations,” he said.