PM Anwar Says Malaysia May Be Targeted by Cyberattacks Due to Its Digital Strength & Pro-Gaza Stance

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has warned that Malaysia is among the countries that could potentially be targeted by cyberattacks.

As reported by Sinar Harian, the warning was based on intelligence information obtained by the government. However, Anwar said certain details of the threat could not be disclosed publicly.

Image Credit: NST

Further explaining why Malaysia is viewed as a potential target, Anwar said there are two main reasons. One relates to Malaysia's stance on several controversial international issues, particularly those involving Palestine and Gaza.

The other is the country's growing strength in the digital sector.

"Malaysia is certainly among those considered targets. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, it is because of our country's digital capabilities. Secondly, it is because of our stance on several issues that are considered controversial by some countries, especially in Europe and the United States, particularly the issue of Palestine and Gaza."

Anwar made the remarks in response to a supplementary question from Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee (PN-Beluran), who asked whether Malaysia had been identified as a target based on available intelligence and the extent of the threat.

"Do not consider the threat to be far from us."

The Prime Minister added that the government had convened a special meeting of the National Security Council (MKN) to examine the implications of hybrid, digital and cyber threats.

The meeting also discussed existing mechanisms and the need for closer coordination among ministries, agencies and security forces to ensure the country is prepared for any potential attack.

Anwar further noted that the government had taken note of measures introduced by several countries, including the European Union, Canada and Japan, which have advised citizens to maintain emergency food supplies ranging from three to 10 days.

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Image Credit: The Star

He also cited cyber incidents abroad that shut down Belgium's national tax portal, compromised the identity records of nearly nine million people in Denmark, disrupted the US Federal Election Commission's filing system for 41 hours, and exposed the personal records of more than 100,000 Japanese police personnel, according to NST.

In addition, the government is closely monitoring developments related to the conflict in the Middle East, as well as tensions involving Yemen and the Red Sea.

Beyond strengthening national preparedness, Anwar stressed the importance of ensuring that the public and wider society are also prepared for potential threats.

"I believe this matter is very important based on the information obtained yesterday evening and this morning from the Minister of Home Affairs. We should not take this matter lightly. So I request the cooperation of everyone in Parliament, both from the government and the opposition, to give the MKN space to conduct briefings in the next one or two days and share the latest developments."

Featured Image Credit: Malay Mail, Unsplash