KUALA LUMPUR (May 6): Addressing non-traditional security risks requires prioritising resources for the younger generation, emphasised Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
Mohamed Khaled clarified that the younger generation’s keen interest and familiarity with emerging technology could bring forth fresh insights and perspectives.
“Investing in the next generation will ensure that they are equipped to navigate future challenges. The big question is, how do we proceed and where do we begin?” he said in his keynote address at the launching of the Putrajaya Forum 2024 titled “Non-traditional threats and emerging technologies” here on Monday.
The forum is in conjunction with the Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2024 and National Security (Natsec) Asia 2024 exhibitions at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) here.
The minister also noted that significant investments in new ideas, efforts and resources are imperative to effectively address the challenges posed by non-traditional security threats.
“It comes with challenges characterised by rapidly evolving dynamics and it demands transformative and game-changing ideas and interagency collaboration and transnational networks.
“We must up the ante of our defence diplomacy by keeping tabs on the current predicament and leveraging the advantages offered by emerging technologies,” he elaborated.
He stressed the need to expedite innovative and efficient defence strategies, integrated with responsible technological advancements.
“It is ultimately advancing shared security interests and strengthening defence capabilities. New technologies that offer practical solutions should be the epicentre of diplomatic ties and international partnership negotiations,” he added.
Mohamed Khaled believes that non-traditional threats demand extraordinary solutions, as the emerging technologies of present day have transitioned from novelty to necessity.
While admitting that the cyber and digital realms offer both opportunities and challenges amid major power rivalry, he said that for Malaysia, however,these are blessings in disguise.
He highlighted that Malaysia has steadily positioned itself as the regional hub for data centres over the recent years, drawing significant investments totalling billions, spanning from Johor to Cyberjaya and Sarawak, showcasing the commitment to nurturing this industry.
All these digital investments, coupled with multi-layered cooperation aimed at enhancing cyberspace capacity, have been supported by robust digital governance involving competent agencies and legislation, he explained.
“This is a necessity to navigate the bane of emerging technology that might threaten our national interest,” the minister said, while asserting that no issue and challenge related to the non-traditional security risk would be left unattended by the government.
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