Take cyber threats seriously and stay vigilant but calm, says consumer group

KOTA KINABALU: National cybersecurity defences must be strengthened amid concerns of threats facing the country as mentioned by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently, says a consumer group.

The Malaysia National Consumers Foundation (Sabah Chapter) said that while such threats are concerning and must be taken seriously, panic must never become a greater problem.

Chapter chairman David Chan urged Malaysians to remain calm, vigilant and responsible rather than let fear and speculation create unnecessary panic.

At the same time, he suggested that the government strengthen its cybersecurity defences through the National Cyber Security Agency (Nacsa) to ensure that government departments, banks, hospitals, telecommunications networks, and utility providers have effective protection.

Malaysia must adopt a comprehensive, multilayered defence system including advanced firewalls, intrusion detection systems, continuous security monitoring, regular software updates, secure backup systems and emergency recovery procedures, he said in a statement on Thursday (Nov 5).

Chan said it is vital to protect the people’s savings and financial security by making Bank Negara Malaysia and all financial institutions strengthen fraud detection, transaction verification, emergency account protection and recovery mechanisms.

"The hard-earned savings of Malaysians must be safeguarded. The government should also establish clear procedures to assist innocent consumers who suffer financial losses arising from verified cybersecurity breaches," he said.

He advised the public not to indulge in panic buying, which could create artificial shortages of essential food items, even when national supplies remain adequate.

Chan said if every household suddenly purchases excessive quantities of rice, cooking oil, sugar, flour and other necessities, supermarket shelves may become temporarily empty, creating unnecessary anxiety and opportunities for price manipulation.

Such behaviour would leave low-income families, senior citizens and vulnerable communities in particular at a disadvantage, he added.

"We therefore urge the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, together with the Agriculture and Food Security Ministry, to monitor essential food supplies, distribution networks and retail prices," he said.

Chan said it was necessary to establish emergency contingency plans for essential services even if digital systems are disrupted.

He said hospitals should have alternative procedures for accessing critical patient information, banks must maintain secure transaction recovery arrangements, and utility companies should have contingency plans to maintain electricity and water supply.

Special attention must be given to Sabah and Sarawak, where rural communities may already face challenges involving telecommunications, transportation and essential supply distribution, he stressed.

He said clear and timely communication is essential to prevent misinformation, fear and rumours circulating through social media. - THE STAR