KUALA LUMPUR – Adoption of voluntary, non-binding United Nation (UN) cybernorms will reduce risks to international peace, security and stability, said Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.
He said norm adoptions by UN state members will help prevent conflict in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) environment, and increase the global social and economic development.
“Norms reflect the expectations of the international community, set standards for responsible state behaviour and allow the international community to assess the activities and intentions of states (members).
“Perhaps, Asean could become the champion in implementing all the norms,” he said in his opening speech for the Asean Cybersecurity Forum at the Cyber Defence and Security Exhibition and Conference (CYDES) 2021, held virtually today.
Ismail Sabri said Asean leaders are committed to strengthening confidence and building measures in safeguarding cyberspace by agreeing to recognise and operationalise the norms.
The UN’s 11 voluntary, non-binding norms of responsible state behaviour are a set of standards on ways for states to conduct themselves in cyberspace, and aim at preventing conflict between states in the ICT environment and contribute to its peaceful use.
Ismail Sabri said global collaborations and partnerships – including information and knowledge sharing, as well as international cooperation and enforcement – are crucial to effectively counter evolving cyberthreats.
Hence, he said, having a regular dialogue and forum to discuss cybersecurity could assist every Asean member state to reach consensus and common understanding in managing regional cybersecurity issues.
“In fact, the Asean leaders’ statement on cybersecurity cooperation has recognised that cybersecurity is a cross-cutting issue that requires coordinated expertise from multiple stakeholders.
“It is best if member states could have continuous cooperation in sharing experiences and best practices in managing the cyber domain.”
In addition, he said it is important for each initiative embarked by Asean member states to be streamlined with international initiatives to build trust and confidence globally.
The inaugural CYDES 2021 is organised by the National Security Council and National Cyber Security Agency. – Bernama, June 28, 2021
