Malaysia, China to step up cooperation against cyber scams, drug smuggling

Beijing, China - Malaysia's Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, emphasized the importance of strengthening security cooperation with China during a press conference. The focus areas include cross-border investigations, asset recovery from cyber scams, and combating drug smuggling, according to Zahid. He stated that closer bilateral cooperation would aid both nations in addressing transnational crime and provide practical benefits under their comprehensive strategic partnership, particularly in security and law enforcement.

Zahid highlighted that cyber scams pose significant challenges as victims are not confined to just Chinese nationals. Consequently, he believes that bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and China is vital in tackling this issue. The two countries have also intensified intelligence sharing, coordinated investigations, and enforcement operations to combat cross-border crime. Malaysia and China have established a joint security committee, which aims to combat drug smuggling as well.

In addition to intelligence sharing and enforcement, Malaysia and China are adopting new methods to obtain early information about drug smuggling operations and facilities used to process illicit drugs. These efforts are currently underway and will be further strengthened, according to Zahid.

The Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, has had several discussions with his Chinese counterpart on combating drug smuggling. Malaysia, chaired by Zahid, recognizes the importance of cross-border cooperation through the Drug Prevention Committee. On the topic of cyber scams, Malaysia joined the International Alliance Against Telecommunications and Cyber Fraud on September 10, with cross-border investigations and asset recovery identified as priorities.

To enhance the legal framework against cybercrime, Zahid personally introduced the Cybercrime Bill in the Dewan Rakyat during the parliamentary sitting last July.