I am writing in response to the statement by the Minister of Communications and Digital on the need of a holistic approach to combat cyber attacks reported by Bernama on 2nd of June 2023.
In today's interconnected and digitized world, cybersecurity has become a matter of paramount importance for nations across the globe. Malaysia, as a rapidly developing nation with a thriving digital economy, is confronted with a pressing need to address the escalating cyber threats it faces. From cybercrime to data breaches and malicious activities, these challenges demand immediate action. To effectively counter the ever-evolving cyber landscape, it is crucial for Malaysia to establish an urgent and comprehensive National Cybersecurity Strategy, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, while simultaneously strengthening its cyberdiplomacy efforts. This article emphasizes the urgent imperatives of implementing a national cybersecurity strategy and engaging in cyberdiplomacy, with the Prime Minister at the helm, to safeguard Malaysia in the digital era.
Malaysia's rapid digitization has undoubtedly fueled economic growth and societal advancement. However, it has also exposed the nation to an increasingly complex range of cyber risks. Frequent incidents of data breaches, ransomware attacks, and intellectual property theft targeting both government institutions and private enterprises have underscored the urgent need for a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy. Malaysia must proactively protect its critical infrastructure, secure sensitive data, and safeguard its national interests in the face of mounting cyber threats.
The Urgent Need for a National Cybersecurity Strategy:
1. Proactive Threat Mitigation and Incident Response: The Prime Minister's leadership is essential in the development of a national cybersecurity strategy that adopts a proactive approach to identify vulnerabilities, develop robust defense mechanisms, and establish effective incident response protocols. By strategically allocating resources and prioritizing cybersecurity investments, Malaysia can strengthen its defenses against cyberattacks.
2. Public-Private Collaboration: Collaborative partnerships between the government and the private sector are crucial in addressing cybersecurity challenges. Under the Prime Minister's leadership, the national strategy should foster robust public-private collaboration, facilitating the sharing of information, best practices, and collective responses to cyber threats. Such partnerships will enhance Malaysia's overall cybersecurity posture and foster a culture of resilience.
3. Capacity Building and Awareness: Building a skilled cybersecurity workforce is crucial for Malaysia's ability to effectively combat cyber threats. The national strategy, led by the Prime Minister, must prioritize initiatives such as specialized training programs, certifications, and academic collaborations to develop expertise in the field. Simultaneously, raising awareness among citizens about cyber risks and promoting safe online practices will create a more secure digital environment.
The Urgency of Cyberdiplomacy:
1. International Cooperation: Recognizing the transnational nature of cyber threats, Malaysia, under the Prime Minister's leadership, must actively engage in cyberdiplomacy. This involves forging alliances and fostering cooperation with other nations to address cybersecurity challenges collectively. Participation in international forums, the sharing of threat intelligence, and collaboration on joint initiatives will contribute to global efforts in combating cybercrime and protecting shared interests.
2. Shaping Global Cyber Norms: Malaysia, through cyberdiplomacy efforts led by the Prime Minister, has an opportunity to shape global cybersecurity norms and policies. Active participation in discussions on international cyber norms, advocating for responsible state behavior, and promoting adherence to
international law in cyberspace will contribute to a more secure and stable cyber environment globally.
3. Establishing Cyber Incident Response Networks: Rapid response and effective cooperation are crucial in addressing cyber incidents. Under the Prime Minister's leadership, Malaysia should establish bilateral and multilateral frameworks for cyber incident response and information sharing. Collaborations of this nature will facilitate swift incident response, minimize damages, and enable the exchange of valuable threat intelligence with other nations.
In the face of escalating cyber threats, Malaysia must act urgently to fortify its cybersecurity defenses and protect its digital landscape. The establishment of a National Cybersecurity Strategy, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, is imperative to safeguard critical infrastructure, secure sensitive data, and defend national interests. By taking a proactive approach to threat mitigation, fostering public-private collaborations, and investing in capacity building and awareness initiatives, Malaysia can enhance its cybersecurity posture and ensure resilience in the digital era.
Equally vital is the engagement in cyberdiplomacy, led by the Prime Minister, to address the transnational nature of cyber threats. Active participation in international cooperation, the shaping of global cyber norms, and the establishment of incident response networks will strengthen Malaysia's position in combating cybercrime and promoting responsible state behavior.
The urgency for a National Cybersecurity Strategy and robust cyberdiplomacy cannot be overstated. With the Prime Minister at the helm, Malaysia can demonstrate its unwavering commitment to protecting its digital assets and fostering a secure digital environment for its citizens and businesses. The time for action is now, as the threats we face are ever-evolving and require a comprehensive and collaborative response.
By prioritizing cybersecurity and diplomatic engagement, Malaysia can position itself as a leader in cybersecurity, not only within the region but on the global stage as well. Safeguarding Malaysia's cyber domain is not just an issue of technology or defense—it is a matter of national security that requires collective efforts, decisive leadership, and international collaboration. Let us seize this opportunity to fortify our cybersecurity defenses and pave the way for a secure and prosperous digital future for Malaysia.
* Yusmadi Yusoff, a senior lawyer, former Ahli Dewan Negara and Ahli Dewan Rakyat who is currently pursuing PhD research on intersection of cybersecurity law, ethics and diplomacy.
** The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of Astro AWANI.
Yusmadi Yusoff
Fri Jun 02 2023

In today's interconnected and digitized world, cybersecurity has become a matter of paramount importance for nations across the globe. - FREEPIK/Filepic
![[COLUMNIST] Putting the two-state solution back on track [COLUMNIST] Putting the two-state solution back on track](https://resizer-awani.eco.astro.com.my/tr:w-177,h-100,q-100,f-auto/https://img.astroawani.com/2024-10/51728873693_EMIR.jpg)
[COLUMNIST] Putting the two-state solution back on track
The US has been complicit in the derailing of the two-state solution from the Bush Jr administration onwards.

Trump hails taking back of Panama Canal, Hong Kong Inc walks tightrope
The former British colony is caught between Beijing and Washington, underlined by CK Hutchison's decision to sell its ports network.

Judges face rise in threats as Musk blasts them over rulings
Many of the judges fear for their safety as online rhetoric escalates, including death threats and intimidation tactics.

UN releases emergency aid reserves after 'brutal' cuts from donors
The United Nations has released $110 million from an emergency fund to help neglected crises around the world.

Dewan Rakyat adjourns sine die, 10 Bills passed including Parliamentary Services Bill
Dewan Rakyat Speaker says the new bill would ensure a clear separation of powers between the executive and legislative bodies.

BRICS is acting properly, with many aspirants willing to join in - India FM
India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar recalls that there were four countries in BRICS at the very beginning.

MWC 2025: YTL Communications wins Global Innovation Award for 5G-AI Integration
The award recognises YTL Communications for pioneering AI and robotics-driven smart manufacturing at Clarion Malaysia.

Strangulation cause of Customs officer's death - KL Police Chief
Police say the case is still classified as a sudden death report (SDR), based on the post-mortem from Putrajaya Hospital's Forensic Dept.

No finding, report on Malaysia's link in Nvidia chip fraud case - Tengku Zafrul
At the moment, there are no findings or reports indicating that (the matter) actually exists says Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

KDN to issue special pass to investors from April 1 - Saifuddin
Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail says a single window method will facilitate entry, with passes issued electronically.
![[COLUMNIST] Accelerating AI and 5G innovation in ASEAN - Rais Hussin [COLUMNIST] Accelerating AI and 5G innovation in ASEAN - Rais Hussin](https://resizer-awani.eco.astro.com.my/tr:w-177,h-100,q-100,f-auto/https://img.astroawani.com/2025-03/61741253261_MWCEMIRRais.jpg)
[COLUMNIST] Accelerating AI and 5G innovation in ASEAN - Rais Hussin
While 5G provides necessary bandwidth, reliability and scale, AI adds predictive intelligence, learning and automation.

Hamas says Trump threats encourage Netanyahu to evade Gaza ceasefire deal
The best track to release the remaining Israeli prisoners is by the occupation going into the second phase, a Hamas spokesperson says.

South Korea air force jet accidentally drops bombs on homes, injuring eight
South Korea's Air Force says eight 225kg Mk82 bombs from KF-16 jets fell outside the shooting range during joint live-fire exercises.

Trump exempts some automakers from Canada, Mexico tariffs for one month
Trump made clear he was not calling off his trade war with Canada and Mexico as he pressures both countries to deter fentanyl smuggling.

Post-mortem on Customs tribunal officer not completed yet - KL Police
The Customs tribunal officer was found dead in the office with his neck and legs bound with cable ties.

Marriott Bonvoy launches year-long 'Malaysian Kitchen' culinary campaign
The campaign brings together chefs from Marriott properties to showcase authentic Malaysian dishes, preserving traditional cooking methods.

BNM seen holding OPR at 3 Pct - Economists
Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid also expected the MPC to leave the OPR unchanged.

Trump warns Hamas as US holds unprecedented talks for Gaza hostages
"RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!," US President Donald Trump demands Hamas.

Malaysia, Australia to set up higher education joint working group
Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir the agreement was reached when he received a courtesy call from Australian High Commissioner to Malaysia.

International job scam syndicate: 750 Malaysians rescued
The Foreign Ministry says eight Malaysians are in the process of being repatriated, while another 236 people are being tracked down.