Kuala Lumpur: Indonesia and Malaysia’s muafakat must extend beyond economic collaboration to include enhanced cybersecurity, counterterrorism efforts, and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, said Senior Political Secretary to the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Shamsul Iskandar emphasized the importance of deepening intelligence-sharing mechanisms, enhancing cyber defense capabilities, and strengthening joint maritime security initiatives to protect vital trade routes, particularly the Malacca Strait. He highlighted the need for defense technology collaboration, including advancements in AI-driven defense systems and drone technology, as crucial for ensuring regional stability.
Shamsul Iskandar pointed out that the rise of misinformation and digital propaganda necessitates stronger media literacy programs and regulatory mechanisms to counter fake news and disinformation. As economic partners, Indonesia and Malaysia must foster digital literacy, innovation, and interconnectivity across ASEAN to ensure that no nation or community is left behind in the transition.
He mentioned initiatives such as the ASEAN Smart Cities Network, digital trade agreements, and supply chain resilience in key industries, including semiconductors, palm oil, and electric vehicle batteries, as essential to strengthening the economic foundations of both countries. Joint investments in startups and emerging technologies were also highlighted as a means to further boost regional competitiveness in the digital economy.
Shamsul Iskandar called on ASEAN to stand united in addressing emerging cyber threats, digital espionage, and geopolitical challenges that could undermine regional progress. He noted that as the digital transformation presents vast opportunities for economic expansion, from fintech and AI-driven industries to the digital economy and green technology, ASEAN must ensure that its regulatory frameworks support inclusive growth while enabling businesses and entrepreneurs to thrive.
Cross-border e-commerce platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, and Tokopedia are driving economic integration, while the rise of fintech and digital payment systems, such as Malaysia’s Touch ‘n Go and Indonesia’s GoPay, exemplifies the potential for seamless economic transactions across ASEAN, he added.
According to Shamsul Iskandar, ASEAN can expect enhanced digital and technological cooperation, including strengthening cybersecurity laws, AI governance, and digital trade agreements, to support seamless digital economic expansion under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership. He emphasized the importance of stronger people-centric policies to ensure economic policies that prioritize equitable growth, digital inclusivity, and youth empowerment across the region.
Shamsul Iskandar reiterated that the future of ASEAN depends on its ability to adapt, innovate, and collaborate, with the muafakat between Indonesia and Malaysia serving as a cornerstone for regional strength. Under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, ASEAN must champion economic justice, digital transformation, and security stability.