Down to business: Ahmad Zahid (second from left) speaking with officials at the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum in Lianyungang city, Jiangsu province. — Bernama
LIANYUNGANG: Safeguarding public security in the digital age requires a united effort.
With this in mind, Malaysia has called on the global community to work alongside each other to create a safe, stable and prosperous world, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said criminals often exploit modern technology, and as such, Malaysia is stressing on the need for investments in cutting-edge technologies, coupled with strong partnerships and enhanced cross-border information-sharing to counter criminal networks.
The Deputy Prime Minister, who raised this issue at an international security forum, said the complexity of modern threats necessitates innovative and collaborative strategies.
“In safeguarding public security in the digital age, we must continually refine our coordination, deepen strategic partnerships and leverage on cutting-edge technologies.
“Here I stand, affirming Malaysia’s commitment to ongoing robust security partnerships, extending beyond continents and regions.
“We invite all nations to work with us toward mutually beneficial outcomes and enhance global security,” he said at the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum here yesterday.
The international forum, an initiative of China which started in 2015, serves as a platform for dialogue and global cooperation on security and enforcement.
Addressing delegates from some 50 nations, Ahmad Zahid highlighted security concerns involving transnational crime, as well as online and illegal gambling.
“With most crimes today often perpetrated by international syndicates, national efforts alone would not be sufficient in addressing transnational crime; it demands for strong international collaboration.
“As criminals exploit modern technology and global trade routes, our response must be swift, coordinated and united. We cannot afford to work in isolation,” he said.
Crossborder crime is believed to be generating up to US$2.2 trillion (RM9.5 trillion) annually, said Ahmad Zahid, who pressed on the need for international collaboration to ensure these networks are dismantled.
He said Malaysia and China have enhanced cooperation in preventing and combating transnational crime through an agreement that would see stronger collaboration in areas such as terrorism-related intelligence, combating communication fraud, online gambling, drug trafficking and money laundering.
On online and illegal gambling, he said this menace has become a pressing global issue, threatening public safety and financial stability, undermining legal systems and fuelling other criminal behaviours such as money laundering and fraud.
“The rise of digital platforms and ease of cross-border transitions have intensified these challenges, making it difficult for individual nations to tackle them alone,” he added.
The Deputy Prime Minister commended China for its commitment towards eradicating online gambling syndicates and for its proactive measures to address these concerns through strict enforcement measures, regulations and international cooperation.
“Malaysia shares this concern and is equally committed to tackling the growing issue of illegal gambling. Many of our people have fallen victim, some have become conduits or mules for these criminal networks,” he said.
Ahmad Zahid said Malaysia’s agreement with China to combat online gambling and illegal gambling has already shown results.
The number of arrests of Chinese nationals in Malaysia has declined from 1,225 cases in 2020 to 79 in 2023.
Commending Interpol for its role in combating crime and enhancing global security, Ahmad Zahid said it is crucial for the international organisation to remain at the forefront of combating organised crime, particularly terrorism.
Implementing a global mechanism with high definition facial recognition and advanced CCTV technology could improve crime prevention, he said, pointing to how innovations are vital for effectively curbing criminal activities.
Strengthening coordination mechanisms is also key, where effective coordination would allow for security threats to be addressed efficiently and precisely, he added.
“As we look ahead, Malaysia is eager to collaborate with global partners, share our experiences and build strong alliances to address public security challenges,” Ahmad Zahid said.
