THE Government must urgently empower its cybersecurity agencies with greater authority and expertise to monitor, detect and respond swiftly to the growing wave of online threats, says Alliance for Safe Communities Chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
In a statement today, Lee said the government must adopt a whole-of-nation approach to digital safety, including reinforcing cyber-related legislation and enforcement.
He noted that existing laws, such as the Communications and Multimedia Act, should be reviewed to address emerging forms of cybercrime.
“Public education campaigns must also be intensified to teach safe online behaviour, especially among schoolchildren, parents and senior citizens. Digital literacy should be integrated into the school curriculum as part of character and moral education,” he said.
Lee stressed that a coordinated national strategy involving law enforcement, educators, civil society and the private sector is essential to ensure comprehensive and consistent protection for all internet users.
He said such measures are critical given the sharp rise in online scams, including financial fraud, identity theft and phishing schemes, which have caused severe emotional and financial distress to many Malaysians.
Online platforms and service providers, he added, must be held accountable for the content they host and adopt stronger moderation, user-protection mechanisms and data-privacy safeguards.
Lee also highlighted the mental-health impact of excessive social media use and digital addiction, saying these issues must be tackled through counselling services and public awareness programmes.
“Security in the digital era is no longer confined to the physical world. It now encompasses every aspect of our online presence.
“The government must therefore lead with clear policies, robust enforcement and inclusive education to ensure technology continues to benefit humanity, rather than harm it,” he said. - December 7, 2025
