General : Malaysia, China Step Up Cooperation Against Cyber Scams - Ahmad Zahid

BEIJING, Oct 13 — Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi highlighted cross-border investigations and asset recovery as Malaysia's key priorities in strengthening security cooperation with China. Speaking to Malaysian media, Zahid emphasized the importance of bilateral cooperation in combating transnational crimes and delivering practical benefits under their comprehensive strategic partnership.

He noted that the challenges in dealing with cyber scams were not limited to Chinese nationals and stressed the crucial role of bilateral cooperation in addressing this issue.

Both Malaysia and China are intensifying intelligence sharing, coordinating investigations, and enforcing operations to combat cross-border crime. The two countries have established a joint security committee that focuses not only on intelligence sharing and enforcement but also on combating drug smuggling. Zahid mentioned that efforts to obtain early information on drug smuggling operations and facilities are already underway and will be further strengthened.

Cooperation between Malaysian police and China's National Narcotics Control Commission remains close, he added.

The Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, has held several discussions with his Chinese counterpart on drug smuggling. Malaysia, through the Drug Prevention Committee chaired by Zahid, recognizes the need for cross-border cooperation in this area, with both countries making significant progress in their efforts. On cyber scams, Malaysia joined a program under the International Alliance Against Telecommunications and Cyber Fraud on September 10, with cross-border investigations and stolen asset recovery identified as priorities.

The Cybercrime Bill was tabled by Zahid in the Dewan Rakyat last July to strengthen the legal framework against cybercrime.