Earlier this month, we reported that the Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil suggests that transforming the National Cybersecurity Agency (NACSA) into a statutory body as a regulatory commission would strengthen the nation’s cybersecurity ecosystem. Seems like this could be getting closer to reality soon.
The Edge reports that the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has announced that the National Cyber Security Committee has made a decision to promptly create a Cyber Security Bill.
This legislation aims to ensure that all necessary legal aspects are finalised. In order to achieve this goal, the NACSA, which operates under the National Security Council (MKN), will take on the primary responsibility of coordinating efforts among different government entities.
The Prime Minister emphasised that national security, including in the digital realm and cyber ecosystem, will not be compromised. The Bill will grant clear legal authority to NACSA to regulate and enforce cybersecurity laws, thereby enhancing its effectiveness. This move aligns with the objectives set forth in MKN Directive No. 26 of the National Cyber Security Management and Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy.
While entities within the cyber ecosystem will retain their existing powers to carry out their respective functions, the functions of various core entities related to cybersecurity will be coordinated to avoid duplication of tasks and maximize efficiency.
Anwar stressed the importance of Malaysia addressing the challenges posed by the digital era, which requires comprehensive preparedness across the government machinery in dealing with cybersecurity threats. He emphasised that this priority extends beyond national borders, encompassing global affairs, as cyberspace and digital communications now play a significant role in various aspects of life.
