Give younger people priority when handling non-traditional risks — Minister
May 6, Kuala Lumpur — Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin stated that resources for the younger generation must be given priority in order to address non-traditional security threats.
According to him, the younger generation’s intense curiosity about and experience with cutting-edge technology may provide novel viewpoints and ideas.
“We can make sure the next generation is prepared to face issues in the future by investing in them. Khaled stated in his keynote speech at the Putrajaya Forum’s inaugural today, “The big question is, how do we proceed and where do we begin?” The topic was Non-Traditional Threats and Emerging Technologies.
The forum is being hosted at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in cooperation with Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (Natsec) Asia 2024.
He went on to say that in order to successfully handle the difficulties presented by non-traditional security risks, a large investment in fresh concepts, initiatives, and resources is necessary.
It presents difficulties with quickly shifting dynamics, necessitating innovative and game-changing concepts as well as cross-border networks and interagency cooperation.
“We need to leverage the benefits of emerging technologies and stay abreast of current developments in defence diplomacy in order to up the ante,” Khaled stated.
He emphasised the need of moving quickly to combine responsible technical breakthroughs with creative and effective defence methods.
In the end, it’s about bolstering defence capabilities and advancing common security objectives.
Diplomatic relations and negotiations for international partnerships should focus on new technologies that provide workable answers, according to Khaled.
According to the minister, unconventional challenges now require unique answers, just as today’s new technologies have moved from being novelties to necessities.
Despite the fact that there are opportunities and problems in the cyber and digital spheres due to great power rivalry, Malaysia can actually benefit from these areas.
The country has made a concerted effort to support this business, as evidenced by the billion-dollar investments it has attracted from Johor to Cyberjaya and Sarawak in recent years, solidifying its position as the region’s centre for data centres.
Robust digital governance with capable agencies and laws has supported all these digital investments as well as multi-layered cooperation aimed at improving cyberspace capacity.
He declared, “We need to navigate the scourge of emerging technology that could endanger our national interest.”
Khaled further declared that the government will not ignore any problem or difficulty pertaining to the non-traditional security concern.