Jakarta, ThedailyID — Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has raised concerns about foreign intelligence operations in neighboring countries. He warned that these activities, including those linked to Israel, could pose security threats to Malaysia.
Speaking in parliament on Tuesday, November 3, Anwar mentioned alleged Israeli intelligence activities and Israeli settlements in Phuket and southern Thailand. He said Malaysian intelligence agencies viewed these developments as potential threats.
“Our intelligence agencies consider these developments potential threats to the country,” Anwar said, as quoted by Reuters.
He also highlighted Malaysia’s vulnerability to cyber warfare. According to Anwar, the country’s digital capabilities and data centers have become among the strongest in the region. He said their capacity could even rival those in Europe.
Anwar added that Malaysia was reviewing the national security implications of cyberattacks. The government was also assessing the possible consequences of attacks involving Gulf countries, particularly Iran, and the risk of nuclear weapons being used.
On Monday, November 2, Malaysia’s National Security Council held a special meeting. The session examined the impact of hybrid, digital, and cyber threats across different parts of the world.
The government also discussed whether attacks and tensions involving Gulf countries could increase the risk of nuclear escalation.
Meanwhile, Anwar said Malaysia was monitoring political developments in Europe. Officials were assessing how international changes could affect the country’s national administration.
He also pointed to preparedness measures taken by the European Union, Canada, and Japan. These countries have advised residents to maintain emergency food supplies for three to 10 days amid global uncertainty.
Anwar cited several cyber incidents affecting international infrastructure. In Belgium, a cyberattack forced the Finance Ministry to shut down its national tax portal.
In Denmark, hackers breached a population data center. The incident reportedly put the personal identity records of nearly nine million people at risk.
Meanwhile, a cyber incident in the United States disrupted a federal election commission filing system for 41 hours. The disruption occurred ahead of a Senate election.
Japan also experienced cyberattacks targeting government networks. The incidents reportedly exposed personal records belonging to more than 100,000 police officers. They also disrupted police operations in several districts.
“These are only some of the developments. We are also monitoring tensions in the Middle East, developments in Yemen and the Red Sea, and security threats in Europe,” Anwar said.
He stressed that international crises could affect public safety, economic stability, and national interests. Therefore, Malaysia needs stronger coordination among ministries, government agencies, and security forces.
Anwar also announced plans for further discussions involving government departments, Bank Negara Malaysia, and financial institutions. He said Malaysia could learn from the European Union’s preparedness approach, which involves governments, private companies, and the wider public.
