KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 — Addressing non-traditional security risks requires prioritising resources for the younger generation, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said the younger generation’s keen interest in and familiarity with emerging technology could yield 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?,” Khaled said in his keynote address at the launching of the Putrajaya Forum titled Non-Traditional Threats and Emerging Technologies today.
The forum is held in conjunction with Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security (Natsec) Asia 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.
He added that significant investment in new ideas, efforts, and resources is imperative to address the challenges posed by non-traditional security threats effectively.
“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,” Khaled said.
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,” Khaled said.
The minister believes that non-traditional threats demand extraordinary solutions, as today’s emerging technologies, have transitioned from novelty to necessity.
While admitting the cyber and digital realms offer both opportunities and challenges amid major power rivalry, it is nonetheless a blessing in disguise for Malaysia.
Over the recent years, the nation has steadily positioned itself as the regional hub for data centres, 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.
“This is a necessity to navigate the bane of emerging technology that might threaten our national interest,” he said.
Khaled also asserted that no issue and challenge related to the non-traditional security risk would be left unattended by the government.
— Bernama
