6th JCM between Malaysia and Singapore highlights importance of digitalisation

Hosted by Malaysia, the JCM highlighted the cordial relations and strong cooperation between both countries in the field of personal data protection, cyber security and digital economy in light of the renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during Malaysian Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's introductory visit to Singapore on Jan 30.

Secretary general of the Malaysian Ministry of Communications and Digital, Datuk Seri Mohammad Mentek, and the Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Communications and Information of Singapore, Joseph Leong, who co-chaired the JCM, shared the view that the rising uptake of digital technologies during the pandemic demonstrates an opportunity to bolster digital economies and improve corporate and individual connectivity.

"Consequently, the need for a safe and secure online space has grown in importance. Malaysia and Singapore continue to recognise the JCM as a useful platform for enhancing bilateral collaboration, addressing key challenges and, most crucially, accelerating economic recovery following COVID-19," said a statement jointly issued by the ministries of both countries.

Mohammad, in the statement said, that Malaysia is committed to driving a digital economy that is inclusive, progressive, equitable, and sustainable for the betterment of its people, as it firmly believes that the digital economy is a crucial foundation for economic recovery during this period.

"The meeting's discussions on the future of digital information and communications cooperation, as well as in areas of data protection between the two countries, have been very interesting and productive, and we have made significant strides toward achieving our shared visions and objectives," he said.

Meanwhile, Leong said Singapore welcomes the continued close cooperation with Malaysia to harness the benefits, while at the same time tackling the challenges, of the evolving digital space, including through their discussions at the JCM and the recently signed MoU on personal data protection, cybersecurity, and digital economy.

"We share common interests in creating a safer online space for our citizens, facilitating cross-border connectivity and data flows for our businesses, and growing our digital economy," he added.

The next JCM will be hosted by Singapore in 2024. In conjunction with the 6th JCM, Malaysia will also host the 14th Muzika Ekstravaganza, an annual variety co-production by Malaysia's Radio Television Malaysia (RTM) and Singapore's Mediacorp, on Feb 4.

This event will be graced by the Minister for Communications and Digital of Malaysia, Fahmi Fadzil, and his counterpart from Singapore, Josephine Teo.