Anwar flags potential cyberattacks against Malaysia
A closed-door National Security Council briefing was proposed for lawmakers, alongside stronger protection for strategic sectors.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim told Parliament on Nov 3 that Malaysia was a potential cyberattack target amid its expanding digital infrastructure and international positions, notably on Palestine and Gaza.
Addressing questions in the Dewan Rakyat, he proposed that all lawmakers receive a confidential briefing from the National Security Council. Some information on the threats and their extent could not be shared publicly, he said, without identifying possible attackers, targets or the nature of the threat.
The council had held a special meeting to examine cyber, digital and hybrid threats. Its assessment also covered Middle Eastern developments and political changes in Europe with possible consequences for Malaysia.
Anwar said measures included closer coordination among security forces, ministries and agencies, as well as increased protection for finance, energy, food supply and transport. The chief secretary to the government was due to chair talks with relevant departments on Nov 3, while the Bank Negara Malaysia governor would separately convene financial institutions.
He added that the government was watching Middle East tensions, developments concerning Yemen and the Red Sea, and European security threats as it strengthened preparations for possible disruptions.
