PETALING JAYA: The need for a joint regional crackdown between China and Asean member countries against scam syndicates is more important than ever to put an end to “cyber slavery”, say experts.
This follows Beijing’s recent proposal to step up security against cybercrimes in the region that have ensnared thousands.
Cybersecurity expert Assoc Prof Datuk Dr Husin Jazri said the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning by cybercriminals is revolutionising the way we do business, simultaneously creating new opportunities for scams.
“Malaysia is losing billions of ringgit every year along with our fellow neighbours as governments lose tax revenues while citizens suffer from inaction and conflicting laws in member countries.“These critical issues impact social and economic stability across the region, threatening our regional development as all of us transition towards digital economies.
“This common threat means it is only logical that we join forces and form a unified approach to this issue,” Husin said.
He said Asean could leverage China’s expertise on AI and machine learning to enhance their own national capabilities against scams.
“Any potential conflict of interests and data sovereignty in the region could then be addressed diplomatically and academically,” he said when contacted.
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Centre for Media and Communication Research chairman Dr Sharon Wilson said China’s in-depth experience with handling large-scale cybercrimes will complement Asean nations’ more limited capabilities.
“China’s expertise in cybersecurity, AI and big data analytics is crucial at tracing digital footprints and identifying scam networks.
“Training Asean law enforcement officers on China’s advanced investigation techniques, cyber forensics and scam prevention strategies will enhance regional anti-scam capabilities.
“Combined with the creation of secure real-time data exchange systems between us will make it easier to track suspects, financial flows and fraudulent online activities, even those on the dark web,” she said.
Fong Choong Fook, the executive chairman of cybersecurity consulting company LGMS Bhd, agreed, saying that Malaysia could take the lead in combating cybercrimes in the region.
He also suggested that regulatory frameworks of telco operators should be made more effective to curb scammers using the platform for their crime.
“What is seriously lacking is that we have poor regulatory control on telcos; there are not many effective steps taken by the operators when it comes to blocking scammers,” Fong said.
Cybersecurity expert Luke Raj said China’s involvement in the fight against scam syndicates will both strengthen enforcement efforts and deter criminal networks altogether.
“Its advanced technological expertise, extensive experience with cybercrime and robust intelligence networks can greatly enhance the region’s capacity to identify and dismantle scam syndicates.
“In law enforcement, China can provide real-time intelligence sharing, support for joint operations and advanced cybersecurity tools to strengthen the fight against these crimes,” Raj said.
However, he cautioned that any sort of cooperation between Malaysia and China should be mutually beneficial and not a one-sided reliance.
“Clear legal frameworks must be established to protect national interests while ensuring transparency and accountability in joint operations,” he said, adding that data privacy and sovereignty must be prioritised and adhere to local laws.
“Malaysia should avoid over- reliance on China by investing in local talent and infrastructure, as well as diversifying partnerships with other Asean members and global allies,” he said.
As such, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) commissioner Derek Fernandez called on China and Asean members to develop agreed-upon regional principles to ensure every country’s digital sovereignty is respected.
“Adhering to these principles will address cybersecurity concerns and make it easier for us to come together and develop a central roaming repository on spoofing scams.
“This will also make it easier for us to collaborate with other nations, outside of Asean and China, which further improves both national and global effectiveness in combating scams and online threats,” he said.
