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Recently, we have reported on numerous cyberattack incidents occurring not only globally but also affecting local institutions and businesses. In fact, the Prime Minister himself has stated that Malaysia has become a primary target for cyberattacks from various quarters—partly due to the country’s position as a significant regional data center hub, and partly due to its vocal stance on humanitarian issues in Gaza and Palestine.
Most recently, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin announced that the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) are in discussions to develop their own dedicated cybersecurity force, with an initial plan to establish and launch it by 2030.
Given the recent rise in cyber-hacking incidents, it is anticipated that the Ministry of Defence may seek to accelerate the development of this cybersecurity force.
“We are witnessing an increase in cyberattacks—not only against national defence but also across other sectors, particularly the private sector. Within the defence sphere, we frequently encounter such attacks; this is nothing new to us. However, with technological advancements, these attacks are becoming increasingly serious and aggressive.”
He further noted that the decision to establish this force has already been made. It is intended to bolster the capabilities of the Malaysian Armed Forces, encompassing its various branches: the Malaysian Army, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
While each branch of the Malaysian Armed Forces already possesses its own inherent cyber capabilities, the creation of a specialized unit—dedicated to addressing all of the MAF’s cybersecurity requirements—will streamline coordination across the entire military establishment. At this moment, it is not yet known when this Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) cybersecurity team will be introduced, but we expect it to happen as soon as possible.
