In an urgent call for action, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister, has emphasized the immediate need to draft a comprehensive cybersecurity bill to safeguard national security. The proposed legislation aims to provide a solid framework for the National Cyber Security Agency (Nacsa) under the National Security Council, granting it clear authority to monitor and enforce cybersecurity laws.
In a statement released on Thursday (June 15), the Prime Minister asserted that national security must not be compromised, extending its protection to encompass the rapidly evolving digital domain and the intricacies of the cyber ecosystem. The formulation of a robust cybersecurity bill will serve as an essential tool to mitigate threats in these arenas.
Anwar Ibrahim further highlighted Nacsa’s pivotal role as the lead agency responsible for coordinating efforts across various government entities and industries. Concurrently, existing entities within the cyber ecosystem will retain their powers, ensuring the continuity of their functions and roles. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of streamlining the functions of multiple cybersecurity-related agencies to avoid redundancy and enhance operational efficiency.
Recognizing the unique challenges posed by the digital era, the Prime Minister emphasized the imperative for the government machinery to bolster its preparedness in combating cyberthreats. By proactively implementing the proposed cybersecurity bill, the nation will be better equipped to respond to and mitigate potential risks in an increasingly interconnected world.
As the cybersecurity bill takes shape, the government remains committed to ensuring the highest level of national security and safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders involved. The forthcoming legislation will play a vital role in fortifying the nation’s cyber defenses, facilitating seamless collaboration between government entities and industries, and empowering Nacsa to effectively address emerging cybersecurity challenges. – source: The Star
15 June 2023
