Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to ASEAN unity in combating transnational crime at the 25th SOMTC meeting
PUTRAJAYA, June 24— Malaysia has reaffirmed its unshaken dedication to regional cooperation in the fight against transnational crime, as the 25th ASEAN Senior Officials Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) and its related meetings officially opened in Putrajaya today.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, in his opening address, underscored Malaysia’s proactive role in shaping ASEAN’s security landscape, stating that the fight against cross-border crime is “not just something we should do—it’s something we must do.”
“Without security, there can be no prosperity. Without peace, no meaningful progress,” he said, echoing a key theme that resonated throughout the speech.
Saifuddin also thanked his counterpart, Datuk Awang Ali Jeman, for his leadership and reiterated Malaysia’s belief in muafakat—unity and consensus—as a guiding principle for ASEAN cooperation.
Key Achievements Under Malaysia’s Chairmanship
The minister highlighted several major developments under Malaysia’s 2025 chairmanship of SOMTC. Among them:
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First SOMTC Working Group on People Smuggling
Held in February, this inaugural meeting focused on enhancing information sharing, strengthening legal frameworks, and improving border security among ASEAN member states. -
A proposal for a New Working Group on Money Laundering
In light of increasing financial crimes and the misuse of digital currencies, Malaysia has proposed the creation of a dedicated working group to combat cross-border money laundering. -
ASEAN Plan of Action (2026–2035)
Malaysia is taking a lead role in formulating the next ASEAN Plan of Action to combat transnational crime—a comprehensive strategy to prepare the region for emerging threats. -
SOMTC Work Program (2026–2028)
The upcoming program aims to translate ASEAN’s strategic goals into actionable initiatives, guided by principles of inclusivity, technical soundness, and regional ownership.
Cybercrime and AI: A Pressing Concern
Saifuddin drew attention to the growing threat of cybercrime, noting that issues such as ransomware attacks and online scams are no longer future concerns but immediate challenges.
He called for the responsible use of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to detect and prevent these digital threats while also stressing the importance of trust and intelligence sharing between member states.
“A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. We must uplift one another to ensure that no member state is left behind,” he urged.
Upholding Neutrality and Unity
In a world increasingly divided by global tensions, Malaysia reiterated ASEAN’s long-standing commitment to neutrality.
“Not choosing sides is not passive—it is strategic. It preserves our sovereignty and protects ASEAN’s unity,” Saifuddin said.
He further emphasized that regional cooperation must go beyond dialogue, calling for bold and principled actions to reform outdated mechanisms and confront hybrid threats.
Towards ASEAN 2045
Concluding his address, the minister reaffirmed Malaysia’s support for ASEAN 2045, a vision that prioritizes inclusivity and sustainability.
“Let us move forward together in unity and purpose. A secure ASEAN is a strong ASEAN,” he said before officially declaring the 25th SOMTC and its related meetings open.
Looking Ahead
The meetings in Putrajaya are expected to result in concrete regional action plans and stronger operational cooperation across the 10 ASEAN member states. Delegates will continue discussions in the coming days on a broad range of transnational crime challenges, from human trafficking and drug smuggling to cyber threats and financial crimes.