Khaled: New ideas needed to address non-traditional security threats

KUALA LUMPUR: Significant investments in new ideas, efforts and resources are imperative to effectively address the challenges of non-traditional security threats, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (pic).

The Defence Minister said the causal effect of non-traditional security threats had accelerated the pace for holistic solutions.

“It comes with challenges, characterised by rapidly evolving dynamics and it demands transformative and game-changing ideas and interagency collaboration and transnational networks.

“We must up the ante on our defence diplomacy by keeping tabs on the current predicament and leveraging the advantages offered by emerging technologies,” he said in his keynote address before launching the Putrajaya Forum, themed “Non-Traditional Threats and Emerging Technologies”, yesterday.

The forum was held in conjunction with the 18th Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security Exhibition (Natsec) Asia 2024, which began May 6 and ends May 9, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec) here.

Mohamed Khaled said it was time to accelerate creative and effective defence solutions, embedded in responsible technological adoption.

“It is ultimately advancing shared security interests and strengthening defence capabilities,” he said.

He said new technologies that offer practical solutions should be the epicentre of diplomatic ties and international partnership negotiations.

“Technologies such as satellite and cybersecurity innovations have enabled enhanced real-time communication and information-sharing among military and defence personnel.

“Having effectively streamlined coordination and expedited decision-making, these technologies warrant our dedicated research and investment focus,” he added.

Mohamed Khaled also said addressing non-traditional security risks would require prioritising resources for the much younger generation.

“With their keen interest and familiarity with emerging technology, the younger generation can offer fresh insights and perspectives. Investing in the next generation will ensure that they are equipped to navigate future challenges,” he said.

He said he believed that non-traditional threats would need extraordinary solutions.

“The emerging technologies today have transitioned from novelty to necessity.

“They stand as household names, which continuously redefine the financial, healthcare and education ecosystem around the world.

“We must be vigilant for the generative AI apps that accentuate their role in our daily lives; these omnipotent apps might determine our digital destinies.

“To top this all, emerging robotics and drone industries that were once Hollywood’s imagination, are now cheap to own, accessible to all and have revolutionised warfare,” Mohamed Khaled said.