ASEAN must urgently strengthen regional security cooperation, harmonise legal frameworks and boost information-sharing to counter rising cybercrime and human trafficking threats, Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said.
Delivering his opening remarks at the 29th ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting, held in conjunction with the 46th ASEAN Summit, Mohamad highlighted the growing scale and severity of cybercrime syndicates that have preyed on thousands across the region.
“Countless ASEAN citizens have been deceived and trafficked into forced labour at scam centres. These operations rob victims of their dignity and savings, while eroding the economies of ASEAN states,” he warned.
He shared that despite ASEAN’s recent efforts to dismantle cybercrime networks, syndicates have shown a disturbing ability to regroup and relocate, exploiting gaps in enforcement and cross-border legal coordination.
As the region faces an evolving security landscape shaped by geopolitical rivalry, digital vulnerabilities and economic instability, Mohamad stressed that ASEAN’s response must evolve.
“We must enhance the resilience of our digital infrastructure and safeguard cyberspace. The pace of technological advancement demands proactive, collective action,” he said.
The meeting also served as a platform to review progress under the APSC Blueprint 2025, which is in its final implementation phase. The findings from this review will inform the development of the APSC Strategic Plan 2045, a long-term roadmap aligned with the upcoming ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
Mohamad praised the progress made since the last APSC Council meeting in Vientiane in 2024, noting that sectoral efforts have significantly contributed to community-building and regional integration.
“The Strategic Plan 2045 will serve as ASEAN’s political-security compass over the next two decades — one anchored in peace, resilience and people-centred values,” he said.
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