Cyber Attack on KLIA Discovered; PM Anwar Reveals Rejection of $10 Million Ransom Demand

The National Cyber Security Agency (Nacsa) and MAHB issued a joint statement on March 23, announcing the detection of the attack and the commencement of an immediate investigation.

Nacsa's CEO, Dr. Megat Zuhairy Megat Tajuddin, stated that the agency has been closely monitoring the situation since MAHB's report. He confirmed that relevant authorities, including Nacsa and the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), were promptly informed.

"We understand that KLIA's operations are not impacted, and we will continue to monitor and support Malaysia Airports," he said.

MAHB's managing director, Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani, emphasised that maintaining airport operations is the company's top priority.

"We are collaborating with our airport partners to ensure that flight operations and passenger processing continue smoothly," he said.

Izani also highlighted the importance of safeguarding the safety, security, and integrity of airport systems. "Our technical and operational teams are actively monitoring the situation and implementing necessary measures to protect the infrastructure and ensure an uninterrupted passenger experience," the statement added.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that hackers demanded a US$10 million ransom following the cyber attack on MAHB. He mentioned that the incident occurred one or two days ago, and the government has refused to comply with the ransom demand.

Anwar also said he did not even take five seconds to reject the possibility of paying the ransom.

“This country will never be safe if its leadership and system allow us to bow to the ultimatum of criminals or traitors, whether from within or outside the country,” he added.

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