Malaysia Urges Stronger AI Safeguards, ASEAN Cooperation To Counter Cyber Threats

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 (Bernama) -- Malaysia has called for stronger safeguards in artificial intelligence (AI), deeper regional cooperation and greater human resilience to address the escalating threats of cyber security.

Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, in his keynote address at Siber Siaga 2025 Wednesday, reminded that cyber warfare is no longer a distant possibility but a present reality that is reshaping how nations, industries and societies operate.

“Our response must be threefold, which is invest in technology from AI assurance to quantum-resilient encryption, strengthen regional alliances, especially through ASEAN and trusted partners, and build human resilience, ensuring that our people, soldiers and leaders remain the ultimate safeguard against digital chaos,” he said.

Adly said Malaysia believes ASEAN can play a bridging role, linking regional priorities with global efforts, and ensuring developing nations are not sidelined in shaping the rules of a digital battlefield.

He warned that AI has become as essential as electricity or water, and any failure, hacking or hijacking of the system could cripple militaries, economies and societies.

“If AI fails, is hacked or hijacked, the effects could impact militaries, economies and societies,” he said.

Adly cautioned against blind reliance on AI, noting that hostile actors are capable of exploiting weaknesses, manipulating data and spreading disinformation.

“That is why human guidance remains important. Technology must serve strategy, not dictate it. Machines may speed up decisions, but responsibility must always rest with leaders to analyse outcomes and impact on human lives, stability and sovereignty,” he said.

The Siber Siaga 2025 forum, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), carried the theme “Battlefield Without Borders: Geopolitics, Military Strategy and Technological Supremacy.”

The event brought together regional and international experts to discuss the geopolitical and technological dimensions of cyber conflict, with a strong focus on the responsible use of AI in defence and security.

-- BERNAMA