Pre-empt, don’t just react: Anwar demands overhaul of cyber defences

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia must stop waiting to be hit and instead build the capability to anticipate and neutralise increasingly complex cyber threats before they strike, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim warned tonight. Pushing for an urgent pivot toward proactive deterrence, Anwar said critical sectors — particularly banking and essential national infrastructure — can no longer rely on reactive security measures in an era of rapidly evolving digital warfare. “We must build strength to anticipate attacks. Do not wait to be reactive. We must be prepared to anticipate,” Anwar said while moderating the 14th edition of the Malaysia Madani Intellectual Forum here. Cyber warfare, he stressed, is no longer confined to developing states. Advanced economies across Europe, despite boasting sophisticated digital infrastructure and formidable economic power, are routinely falling prey to severe breaches. To counter the growing vulnerability, the government recently convened a National Security Council (NSC) meeting to audit domestic capabilities and technical expertise. The nationwide push has also reached the top tiers of civil service and the legislature. Members of Parliament have received comprehensive security briefings, while Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar has mobilised ministry secretaries-general and directors-general to streamline defences against potential breaches across all state machinery. Anwar underscored that watertight preparation is non-negotiable because intrusions arrive in multiple guises and frequently bypass conventional early-detection systems. Beyond digital security, the premier highlighted the forum’s role as an unvarnished feedback loop for national policy, allowing policymakers, academics, and industry heads to challenge government positions candidly. “We hold this forum in a relaxed, informal manner. I listen to the views from friends, then we summarise and bring necessary matters to the Cabinet,” he said, insisting that critical insights must translate into tangible administrative reform rather than remain academic rhetoric. The 14th Malaysia Madani Intellectual Forum also addressed agricultural resilience and food security, framing both as pivotal pillars of long-term economic and national security. Present at the session were Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, SD Guthrie Berhad Group CEO and President Mohd Haris Mohd Arshad, and PNB Research Institute CEO Dr Sarena Che Omar. - November 7, 2026 The post Pre-empt, don’t just react: Anwar demands overhaul of cyber defences appeared first on Scoop .