MANILA: Malaysia has urged Asean to step up joint efforts to combat transnational crime, including online scams, illegal gambling and smuggling.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said Malaysia remained deeply concerned about the rapid evolution and growing sophistication of criminal networks, adding that the threat demanded a swift and coordinated Asean response.
"Asean should not be the epicentre of transnational crime,” he said in his intervention on Saturday at the Asean Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting, held ahead of the 49th Asean Summit and Related Summits.
Mohamad welcomed the adoption of Asean’s 2026-2028 work programme on transnational crime, which supports the bloc’s 2026-2035 plan of action.
He said implementing the programme would require timely intelligence-sharing, stronger border management and closer operational cooperation.
"In this spirit, Malaysia calls for the timely implementation of the Asean Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy (2026-2030), to address cyber threats, respond to incidents, as well as exchange information among Member States,” he said.
Mohamad also welcomed Asean’s first regional report on trafficking in persons.
Malaysia looked forward to using its findings to improve the identification and protection of victims and bring traffickers to justice, including those who force victims to commit crimes, he said.
He said Asean leaders were expected to adopt two declarations at the summit. One aims to prevent online sexual abuse and exploitation of children, including AI-enabled abuse, protect victims and strengthen cooperation among law enforcement agencies.
The other seeks to strengthen the role of law enforcement agencies as first responders during disasters and emergencies through closer coordination and information-sharing. - Bernama
