SHAH ALAM - Sharing knowledge and experiences with other ASEAN member countries can significantly strengthen Malaysia's efforts in combating cybercrime.
Cybersecurity expert from Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia Tamhidi Centre, Emeritus Professor Datuk Dr Mohamed Ridza Wahiddin believes Malaysia stands to benefit greatly from exchanging knowledge with ASEAN nations to tackle cybercrime.
He stated that by understanding how other countries address these challenges, Malaysia can learn from their successes and avoid repeating mistakes.
"I believe real-time intelligence exchange would greatly enhance Malaysia's and other ASEAN nations' efforts to combat transnational cybercrime," he told Sinar Daily when contacted.
He pointed out that the 2021–2025 ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy builds on the first strategy, focusing on incident response, CERT collaboration, and capacity building.
The strategy also considers the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, aiming to create a safer and more secure cyberspace across the region.
The strategy is structured around five key areas: advancing cyber readiness cooperation, strengthening regional cyber policy coordination, enhancing trust in cyberspace, regional capacity building, and international cooperation.
Real-time intelligence exchange from INTERPOL would directly support and strengthen each of these areas, making the collective efforts of ASEAN nations more effective and responsive.
Ridza claimed that one of the main challenges in creating a unified cybersecurity framework among ASEAN countries is establishing a common baseline that is suitable for everyone.
He acknowledged the region's diversity, noting that some countries are technologically advanced while others are still improving their capabilities.
"Balancing the needs and priorities of the more advanced nations with those of the less developed ones is a delicate task. It requires careful consideration to ensure that the framework is inclusive and adaptable while addressing the unique cybersecurity threats we all face," he added.
Ridza also highlighted the INTERPOL initiative known as the ASEAN Cybercrime Operations Desk, which plays a vital role in addressing regional cyber threats.
He further stressed that strengthening public-private partnerships in Malaysia and across ASEAN is crucial in combating cyber threats.
This can be achieved through continuous improvement in awareness and understanding among all stakeholders.
"Cyber threats are becoming increasingly complex, and the only way to address them effectively is through collaboration rooted in a shared comprehension of the challenges we face," he said.
On Jan 20, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi proposed the establishment of an ASEAN Cybercrime Task Force, inspired by the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL).
He stressed that cybercrime continues to be a significant security threat, noting the growing complexity and interconnectedness of security challenges such as cybercrime, terrorism and transnational crimes.
These issues transcend national borders, making collaborative efforts and proactive policies essential for effectively addressing them.