Malaysia on cyberattack radar, government steps up security measures

Malaysia is strengthening its defenses against possible cyberattacks following intelligence assessments that placed the country among potential targets, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The growing digital infrastructure and Malaysia's position in the Gaza conflict have drawn attention to the country's vulnerability.

In response, the National Security Council (NSC) convened a special meeting on Monday to assess the threat, along with broader security developments in the Middle East and Europe. Anwar stated that Malaysia had been identified as a potential target by the Home Ministry and that the government would take precautionary measures. A special closed-door session involving all MPs is planned within one or two days to allow lawmakers access to information not available in open sessions.

The government is coordinating its response across key agencies, with the Chief Secretary to the Government and the Bank Negara Malaysia governor to lead discussions with relevant departments and financial institutions. Critical sectors such as energy, transport, financial services, and food supply will be closely monitored. Anwar cautioned against assuming that cyberattacks are distant problems, citing incidents in Belgium, Denmark, the United States, and Japan that disrupted public services and exposed sensitive information.