KUALA LUMPUR, 28 FEB – It takes a thief to catch a thief.
And in its efforts to outsmart cybersecurity threats, the Malaysian Armed Forces plans to hire master computer hackers with technological proficiency, to fortify the nation’s defence capabilities.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin did not dispel this possibility in view of the alarming growth of hackers in the defence and security domain – who could wreck a nation very dearly.
He warned that non-traditional enemies involving cyber security, digital intelligence and electromagnetic threats had a huge impact on the spectrum of global defence and security.
“Hackers have the potential to cripple economies, a nation’s governance, healthcare system and transportation to devastating effect.
“Many countries and major defence powers have now begun to give serious attention to this ever-evolving aspect more openly and innovatively.
“Therefore, we cannot be complacent and must be prepared and ready for the ‘Force of the Future’ with adaptation to artificial intelligence (AI), Big Data and digitisation of the defence industry, empower our reserve forces and enhance defence diplomacy,” Khaled said.
He cited how hackers had reportedly breached classified data from the United States Pentagon – stealing 600,000 e-mails and compromising 2,500 government agencies – and many other developed countries, much to the detriment of its national security.
“Even now, we have already seen efforts by the Armed Forces of the world to beef up their information communications technology (ICT) security, to thwart criminals using drones to avoid enforcement agencies.
“Malaysia, too, cannot afford to lag behind and we ought to seriously consider recruiting experts who possess the computer system anti-hacking capability,” Khaled said at the launch of ‘Kick-Off: The mid-term review of Malaysia’s Defence White Paper (DWP)’ at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess of the Defence Ministry in Jalan Tekpi.
Present were Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, Defence Forces chief General Tan Sri Mohammad Abdul Rahman and deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
He lauded Singapore’s initiative to establish the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) within its Armed Forces.
Malaysia, too, Khaled said had established Defence Cyber and Electromagnetic Division, headed by its director-general Rear Admiral Mohd Fadzli Kamal Mohd Mohaldin,
On the DWP mid-term review, Khaled said that numerous developments on local, regional and global scales necessitated a recalibration of Malaysia’s defence strategies and priorities.
In terms of preparedness and readiness of the ‘Force of the Future’, he said it must not be limited to having more personnel or acquisition of more high-technology assets.
“We must look strategically and be realistic on important aspects concerning the empowerment of local talent, strategic collaboration with larger and more experienced players and the development of local content.
“Attention to the latest developments should give valuable lessons for us, especially as a maritime nation.
“It is our mission to ensure continuous peace and prosperity in this country and region,” Khaled said.
He reminded that the DWP was a testament to the nation’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding security, fostering prosperity and nurturing the well-being of its people.
“Since its introduction in 2020, the DWP has become the main guide and foundation for various policy formulations, focuses and directions.
“As such, the success in translating this DWP should be a priority and focus for all parties in this ministry.
“On that basis, this mid-term review that we are about to commence must be seen as a serious and objective exercise,” said Khaled.
He added that since the presentation of the DWP in parliament, there had been various changes and developments that had to be addressed.
This, he said, followed the global Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the impacts of climate change, the reintroduction of the National Service Training Programme and geopolitics.
“The findings of this DWP mid-term review will serve as a basis for the ministry and the Armed Forces to negotiate with the federal government on the needs and planning to be considered for the five-year 13th Malaysia Plan (2025-2030),” said Khaled. – airtimes.my
