Hamzah urges govt to keep data encryption keys in its hands

Opposition leader Hamzah Zainudin has called on the Malaysian government to retain control over data encryption keys to bolster information security against cyber threats. He urged the creation of a sovereign data centre as a long-term solution during a press conference at Parliament. Hamzah emphasized that the proposed committee to discuss cybersecurity issues should not be a superficial measure, stating that the growing global geopolitical uncertainty has heightened concerns about cyberattacks.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's proposal to form a committee aimed at addressing cybersecurity concerns was welcomed by the opposition, but Hamzah stressed the need for a serious and sustained response to the growing threat. Last week, Anwar had warned that Malaysia might become a target for cyberattacks due to the robustness of its digital infrastructure and data centers, as well as the government's stance on some international issues.

The National Cyber Security Agency raised the country's cyber threat level from low to moderate on November 3 as a precautionary measure, and the National Security Council instructed all entities handling the nation's critical information infrastructure to enhance their preparedness, including 24-hour monitoring, security system updates, and continuity plans.