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CyberSecurity Malaysia (CSM) has had a splendid fiscal year, winning many different awards including OpenGov’s Recognition of Excellence award. They have taken numerous initiatives in ensuring safe cyberspace. We spoke to Dato’ Dr Amirudin, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CSM to gain insight into how they have gained their traction in the tech-industry in Malaysia.
The 2018 Cybersecurity Index by ITU has named Malaysia the third most cyber secure nation in the world. CSM had a big role to play in achieving this. They have rolled out many initiatives in the past year to ensure that Malaysia’s networks are safeguarded.
Dr Amirudin highlighted that while cybersecurity tools can always be upgraded to keep up with the changing technical landscapes, they are not sufficient in protecting entire companies and networks from cybersecurity threats.
Cyber criminals these days are becoming even more devious and undetectable. They wreak havoc with catastrophic consequences for businesses. A large-sized organization in Malaysia can possibly incur an economic loss of US$22.8 million from cyberattacks. This amount is set to increase exponentially as technology continues to advance.
The best way to keep pace with the security threats from the rapid advancements of technology is to deploy modern adaptive cybersecurity solutions that are able to utilise predictive detection techniques.
Dr Amirudin highlighted that while technical cybersecurity tools can provide temporary protection from immediate and potent attacks, they are not a sustainable means of protecting entire networks from the perennially evolving cybersecurity threats.
Organisations need to be fortified from within. To do this, they have to ensure that the three main elements are impregnable. These three elements are: People, Processes and Technology.
The weakest link in the security chain is still the “people”. Insider threats account for nearly 84% of cybersecurity breaches in organisations. Studies have shown that people underestimate the rate at which technology evolves, causing them to have the false belief that they are already resilient to cyberattacks.
This is one of the reasons why Cyber Security Malaysia came up with the CyberSAFE programme. This is an awareness, programme aiming to raise awareness about the technical issues that internet users face. The programme aims to reach out to people of all walks of life including, school children, adults, working adults and even teachers.
The programme has had a stellar success rate especially when it comes to reaching out to children as they are the most vulnerable to cyberattacks. Courses have been conducted to educate both children as well as their school teachers to ensure that they are not only aware but have knowledge of how to react when faced with a cyberattack. Over 230 100 students have attended the CyberSAFE programme.
Despite their incredible penetration rate, CSM is continuing to look for ways to make the programme more holistic. The programme is conducted in many different ways and through many different platforms to capture interest and make it more attractive.
Since the CyberSAFE programme is a preventive measure aimed at protecting digital citizens from cyberattacks, it has to be interesting and engaging so that people retain the message of what has been taught. CSM is, therefore, working on ways that they can achieve this retention rate.
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The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) is dedicated to securing Singapore’s cyberspace to support national security, power the digital economy, and protect the digital way of life. To reinforce national security, CSA continually monitors cyber threats, defends critical information infrastructure (CII), and implements mitigation measures to safeguard essential services.
The Singapore Cyber Emergency Response Team (SingCERT) responds to cybersecurity incidents for its Singapore constituents. It was set up to facilitate the detection, resolution and prevention of cybersecurity-related incidents on the Internet.
Singapore, represented by the CSA has been working closely with ASEAN Member States (AMS) to establish the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) to promote and facilitate information-sharing related to cyber incident response, and to complement the operational efforts by individual national CERTs in each AMS.
Singapore had made the recommendation for a single AMS to host the ASEAN Regional CERT and proposed to host and fund its physical activities in Singapore at the 14th ASEAN Network Security Action Council in August 2023.
The ASEAN Regional CERT will enable stronger regional cybersecurity incident response coordination and critical information infrastructure (CII) protection cooperation, including for cross-border CII such as banking and finance, communications, aviation and maritime.
The 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN) convened in Singapore in February, to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in the digital realm, particularly amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The meeting recognised advancements in implementing the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 (ADM 2025) despite the pandemic and stressed the need for a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem. The ADM 2025 Mid-Term Review (MTR) assessed progress in key areas including trusted digital services, consumer protection, and broadband infrastructure
The meeting highlighted the need to set governance standards for emerging technologies like AI, based on recommendations from the ADM 2025 MTR. It also emphasised the importance of collaborating on digital infrastructure and fostering trust among users for secure data sharing.
The endorsement of the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics marked a significant milestone, reflecting the region’s commitment to harnessing AI technologies responsibly. The guide, which includes practical use cases for trustworthy AI deployment, is poised to serve as a valuable tool for promoting the responsible and ethical utilisation of AI solutions across ASEAN.
Additionally, the meeting welcomed initiatives aimed at enhancing regional cybersecurity capabilities, such as the establishment of the ASEAN Regional CERT. This initiative is expected to bolster incident response capabilities and facilitate timely information sharing and best practice exchange among ASEAN member states.
Moreover, the meeting acknowledged the importance of data governance and privacy protection in fostering digital trust. Efforts to promote the adoption of the ASEAN Model Contractual Clauses and facilitate seamless data transfers between ASEAN and the European Union were commended as significant steps towards enhancing regional data governance frameworks.
The meeting also highlighted the significance of digital infrastructure development, including the advancement of 5G networks and the establishment of frameworks to facilitate cross-border data flows, particularly in areas such as disaster management and logistics for rural areas.
In the realm of international cooperation, the meeting affirmed ASEAN’s commitment to deepening collaboration with dialogue and development partners, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, the United States, the European Union, ITU, and APT. These partnerships are crucial for advancing digital transformation, cybersecurity, and capacity-building efforts across the region.
Overall, the 4th ADGMIN underscored the collective resolve of ASEAN member states to navigate the evolving digital landscape, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and resilience to realise the full potential of the digital economy for the benefit of all stakeholders.
Following the endorsement of the financial model, Singapore will continue to work closely with AMS to operationalise the ASEAN Regional CERT to enhance collective cybersecurity within the region.
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The increasing prevalence of internet usage among young people presents a pressing need to protect them from exposure to harmful content, necessitating stronger regulations and heightened parental awareness to ensure their safety online. A recent report from a prominent advocacy organisation in New Zealand, urging more comprehensive and stringent regulations on online content, underscores the pressing need to bolster safeguards ensuring the safety of children’s digital interactions.
With the advent of the internet, young individuals have gained access to an unprecedented array of content, ranging from educational and informative to entertaining; however, this digital landscape has also exposed them to graphic imagery, adult material, and objectionable content, posing challenges in safeguarding them from such risks, including exposure to illegal sexual content, a concern faced not only by New Zealand but also by numerous countries worldwide.
The voluntary system administered by the Department of Internal Affairs in New Zealand currently blocks more than 400 websites depicting child sex abuse. Social Worker Rachel Taane has observed the psychological harm caused by exposure to illegal sexual content, noting that it can normalise harmful behaviours and create significant distress. She emphasises that children often feel embarrassed or afraid to seek help, fearing punishment or having their devices taken away.
Despite efforts by most internet providers to participate in a voluntary digital child exploitation filtering system, there is still much to be done. Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden acknowledges the system’s successes in blocking harmful material but recognises the need for improvement. She emphasises the importance of balancing censorship and protecting children from harmful content while respecting freedom of expression.
The Makes Sense campaign has been actively advocating for better protection for children online, with an online petition signed by 10,000 individuals calling for stronger filters on illegal sexual behaviour. Organisers like Holly Brooker highlight the need for New Zealand to catch up with international standards, citing the UK foundation as an example of effective web-crawling and hashing technology to block child sexual abuse material.
The petition co-founder, Jo Robertson, echoed the concerns raised by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) about the alarming increase in this type of content, emphasising the need for immediate action to address the issue. Despite the challenges, there is a collective call for greater protection for children online and a recognition that more can be done to prevent accidental exposure to harmful content. Children are frequently targeted by cyber risks, making them vulnerable.
OpenGov Asia has reported that New Zealand has prevented harm to vulnerable communities. At the start of the 2024 academic year, law enforcement agencies urged parents and caregivers to be cautious when sharing back-to-school photos of their children online. While it is common to celebrate such milestones, authorities stress the importance of taking privacy precautions to shield children from potential risks in the digital realm.
Parents often share images of their children in school uniforms or at educational institutions, unknowingly disclosing identifying details that could be exploited. While such incidents are relatively rare, instances of inappropriate image use, including their inclusion in child exploitation material, underscore the importance of heightened awareness.
In response to these potential dangers, authorities advise parents and caregivers to take proactive measures to ensure their children’s online safety and protect their personal information. Police are recommending some essential tips to enhance online safety.
Similarly, as the government endeavours to enhance filters and upgrade the current system, it is paramount for parents to maintain vigilance over their children’s online activities. Utilising accessible parental control filters can help restrict access to inappropriate content and mitigate potential risks.
Safeguarding children from online harm requires a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, including governments, internet service providers, and families. Together, they can work towards creating a safer online environment for everyone.
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The Legal Affairs Division has taken a significant step forward in addressing cybercrime with the preparation of a working draft for the Digital Safety Bill 2023, as announced by Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform). This draft, serving as an initial framework, aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and aims to keep pace with evolving technological landscapes.
Azalina revealed these developments during the Working Committee Meeting on the Drafting of New Laws Related to Cybercrime No. 2/2024, co-chaired by her and Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil at the Parliament building.
Stressing the necessity of specific procedural legislation to tackle existing and potential challenges posed by technological advancements, Azalina highlighted the imperative to prepare for the continuous evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to maintain a proactive stance against cyber threats.
The meeting, attended by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching and Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) M. Kulasegaran, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing cybersecurity measures and ensuring the safety and integrity of digital spaces in the nation.
On June 15 last year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the National Cyber Security Committee agreed to expedite the formulation of the Cyber Security Bill to ensure all relevant aspects of the legislation are finalised.
Later in November, the Cabinet tentatively approved the drafting of the Cybersecurity Bill, prioritising regulatory authority and law enforcement, with Prime Minister Anwar highlighting plans to reinforce the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) as the primary national cybersecurity entity and implementer of the proposed legislation.
Prime Minister Anwar emphasised the bill’s aim to establish a comprehensive cybersecurity law to complement existing regulations, a sentiment conveyed by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan during a session on the Cybersecurity Bill.
The significant number of cyber incidents reported by the National Cyber Coordination and Control Center (NC4) and NACSA underscores the urgent requirement for strengthened cybersecurity protocols. In light of cyberspace’s escalating importance in national security and geopolitical realms, Prime Minister Anwar highlighted the escalating threat of cyber warfare, citing concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities such as information leakage, cybercrime, and the exploitation of technological weaknesses by actors with geopolitical agendas.
The Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy (MCSS) 2020-2024, comprising five core pillars, 12 strategies, and 35 action plans, outlines the nation’s cybersecurity agenda, including legislative initiatives like the Cybersecurity Bill, capacity building for cybersecurity professionals, fostering public-private collaboration, and enhancing international relations.
Minister Azalina Said, in collaboration with Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, spearheaded a crucial Working Committee Meeting on Cybercrime Legislation Drafting in Kuala Lumpur in February this year. Attended by representatives from multiple ministries and agencies, this gathering underscored the government’s concerted effort to address cyber threats comprehensively.
During the meeting, Minister Azalina emphasised the imperative need for new legislation to combat cybercrime effectively, aligning with the Madani government’s commitment to bolstering cybersecurity measures nationwide. With the pervasive influence of online services in modern life, she highlighted the escalating threat posed by cybercrime and advocated for proactive strategies to mitigate its impact.
Against the backdrop of Malaysia’s existing legal framework governing cybersecurity, including laws such as the Computer Crimes Act 1997 and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, Minister Azalina stressed the necessity of the Cyber Security Bill. This proposed legislation seeks to establish a robust legal framework to safeguard digital infrastructure and protect citizens’ online activities in the face of evolving cyber threats.
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The National Security Agency (NSA) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have teamed up to release a comprehensive guide aimed at bolstering cloud security measures for organisations. Titled “Top Ten Cloud Security Mitigation Strategies,” this initiative aims to equip cloud customers with essential practices to enhance the security of their data as they migrate to cloud environments.
In an era where digital transformation is accelerating, the migration of data and operations to cloud platforms has become commonplace. However, this transition brings with it a myriad of security concerns, as evidenced by the increasing frequency of cyberattacks targeting cloud infrastructure. Recognising the critical need to address these challenges, the NSA and CISA have collaborated to compile a set of ten cybersecurity information sheets (CSIs), each focusing on a different aspect of cloud security.
One of the primary themes emphasised in the report is the importance of upholding the cloud-shared responsibility model. This model delineates the responsibilities between cloud service providers and their customers regarding security measures. By understanding and adhering to this model, organisations can ensure that they are taking appropriate steps to safeguard their data within the cloud environment.
Another key area highlighted in the report is the implementation of secure identity and access management practices. Proper management of user identities and access controls is essential for preventing unauthorised access to sensitive data stored in the cloud. Through robust authentication mechanisms and access policies, organisations can fortify their defences against potential security breaches.
In addition, the report emphasises the critical importance of implementing secure key management practices, robust encryption mechanisms, and effective network segmentation strategies within cloud environments. These measures play a pivotal role in protecting data both when it is stored and when it is being transferred, thereby reducing the likelihood of data breaches and unauthorised interception.
Furthermore, the report highlights the significance of securing data throughout its entire lifecycle in the cloud. This includes implementing stringent security measures for data storage, processing, transmission, and disposal. By doing so, organisations can effectively protect their data against a wide range of evolving threats.
Another critical aspect covered in the report is the defence of continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) environments. As organisations increasingly adopt DevOps practices and automate their software development processes, securing CI/CD pipelines becomes paramount to prevent the introduction of vulnerabilities and malicious code into production environments.
Moreover, the report emphasises the enforcement of secure automated deployment practices through infrastructure as code (IaC). By treating infrastructure as code and automating deployment processes, organisations can ensure consistency, repeatability, and security in their cloud environments.
The complexities introduced by hybrid cloud and multi-cloud environments are also addressed in the report. As organisations adopt hybrid and multi-cloud strategies to meet their diverse needs, they must navigate the unique security challenges posed by these environments effectively.
Additionally, the report highlights the risks associated with managed service providers (MSPs) in cloud environments. While MSPs offer valuable services and expertise, organisations must be vigilant in vetting and managing their relationships with MSPs to mitigate potential security risks.
The report stresses the importance of managing cloud logs for effective threat hunting. By aggregating and analysing logs generated by cloud services, organisations can proactively identify and respond to security incidents before they escalate.
The “Top Ten Cloud Security Mitigation Strategies” initiative by the NSA and CISA provides invaluable guidance to organisations seeking to enhance the security of their data in cloud environments. The NSA and CISA envision these strategies as foundational advice that every cloud customer should follow to mitigate the risks associated with cloud services. By implementing these strategies effectively, organisations anywhere can mitigate risks and bolster their defences against cyber threats in an increasingly digital landscape nowadays.
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The Singapore Police Force (SPF) urges the public to safeguard their SingPass credentials. Scammers have been posting fraudulent job offers online, requesting SingPass details under the guise of job screening. Since January 1, 2024, at least 47 individuals have fallen victim to such schemes, often encountering these offers on platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp.
Victims are instructed to change their SingPass email and phone number, provide their password, and share NRIC screenshots. Scammers then exploit this information to register multiple bank accounts or obtain profile data for illicit purposes.
Despite a nearly 50% rise in scam cases to 50,376 in 2023 from 33,669 in 2022, proactive cybersecurity measures by the Singapore Police Force against scams and cybercrime are yielding positive results and there is good news financially. Despite more cases, the total amount lost decreased slightly by 1.3% to $651.8 million in 2023 from $660.7 million in 2022, marking the first decline in five years and indicating progress in scam prevention efforts.
Additionally, the average amount lost per scam case dropped significantly, from $20,824 in 2022 to $13,999 in 2023, a decrease of about 32.8%. Notably, 55.6% of scam cases reported losses less than or equal to $2,000, suggesting improved resilience against scams among the populace.
This positive trajectory can be attributed to the collaborative efforts of various agencies and stakeholders, including the Singapore Police Force (SPF), the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), Smart Nation Group (SNG), Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and private sector partners. Their coordinated actions aimed at preventing scams and raising public awareness have contributed significantly to mitigating losses and empowering individuals to protect themselves.
While challenges persist, particularly in scams involving social engineering and deception via social media platforms, individual vigilance remains crucial. By staying informed, exercising caution, and leveraging the resources provided by government agencies and stakeholders, individuals can fortify their defences against evolving cyber threats.
The breakdown of scam types reveals a concerning trend, with job scams, e-commerce scams, fake friend call scams, phishing scams, and investment scams dominating the landscape. However, heightened awareness and concerted efforts are driving progress in scam prevention, offering hope for a safer digital environment for all.
Singapore Police Force has significantly escalated its efforts to counter the rising threat of scams and cybercrime, employing a multifaceted approach encompassing enforcement, engagement, and education. SPF’s strategy relies on strong public-private partnerships, particularly through the Anti-Scam Command (ASCom), collaborating with over 100 institutions like banks, fintech companies, and e-commerce platforms. This facilitates swift freezing of accounts and fund recovery, reducing victim losses. Additionally, SPF conducts targeted enforcement operations against scam tactics, resulting in the termination of thousands of phone lines and the apprehension of fraudsters.
SPF collaborates with foreign law enforcement agencies to dismantle transnational scam syndicates, leading to successful joint operations and arrests of perpetrators. Participation in internationally coordinated operations like INTERPOL’s Operation First Light and Operation HAECHI showcases SPF’s global commitment to combating scams.
Alongside enforcement, SPF proactively prevents scams through initiatives like Project A.S.T.R.O., which sends SMS alerts to potential victims, helping them recognise and avoid scams. Outreach programs target various groups, like migrant workers and the elderly, raising awareness and empowering communities to report scams.
Education is vital in SPF’s anti-scam efforts. The Scam Public Education Office (SPEO) leads public awareness campaigns and shares anti-scam resources. Platforms like the ScamShield app and the Add, Check, Tell framework empower individuals to protect themselves against scams. Additionally, collaborative efforts with content creators and organisations enhance anti-scam messaging, fostering a collective response against scams.
SPF’s holistic strategy underscores its commitment to protecting the community from scams and cybercrime. Through collaborative cybersecurity initiatives, there’s been a decrease in financial losses despite an increase in scams, demonstrating improved resilience and public safety through multifaceted approaches in compliance, caution and awareness.
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The SolarWinds Transform Partner Program at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Nusa Dua Bali on 4-6 March 2024 emerged as a crucial forum for it’s business partners and the whole APJ team to explore the dynamic digital landscape, particularly amidst ongoing global disruptions. The event attracted senior executives from the SolarWinds global team to complement the APJ’s team.
The event provided an opportunity for OpenGov Asia to share invaluable insights on “Digital Terraforming: Reshaping APJ’s Landscape in the Digital Age”.
Mohit Sagar, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of OpenGov Asia delivered a keynote address that set the tone for the event. Recognising the transformative potential of technology, particularly in reshaping the economic terrain of APJ, he elaborated on crucial concepts such as digital terraforming socio-cultural transformation, environmental resilience in the digital age and navigating ethical and regulatory frontiers.
In recent years, the transformative power of technology has transcended geographical boundaries, democratising access to information, resources, and opportunities on a global scale. This digital revolution has become a stimulus for innovation and growth, empowering nations to leverage their talents and resources in unprecedented ways.
As a result, more nations are increasingly better positioned to thrive in the digital era, with technology playing a pivotal role in reshaping the global landscape and levelling the playing field for all.
Mohit acknowledged the disruptive impact of COVID-19, emphasising how it accelerated the adoption of digital technologies across industries. The pandemic served as a catalyst, compelling businesses to swiftly embrace digital solutions to adapt to changing circumstances and navigate unprecedented challenges, thereby restructuring traditional business models and practices.
“COVID-19 accelerated digital transformation across sectors and industries. Citizen services, healthcare, remote work tools, e-commerce platforms and video conferencing witnessed significant adoption and transformed life and work,” Mohit acknowledges. “Companies that embraced digital technologies were able to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic more effectively, showcasing the power and potential of the technology.”
The APJ region, like other parts of the world, boasts numerous positive factors, ranging from burgeoning internet penetration and widespread mobile adoption to the emergence of tech hubs and government initiatives driving AI and automation. Of course, alongside these prospects come pressing concerns such as data privacy and security, influenced by the shift to cloud computing, remote work and rapid urbanisation.
In the face of these challenges, the evolution of technology emerges as a pivotal factor, driving tech innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and facilitating skill upgrades that collectively shape the digital landscape.
Be that as it may, the world continues to grapple with volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity. Escalating geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions emanating from ongoing conflicts mean there are unprecedented challenges compounded by political confusion and an ever-shifting global landscape.
In fact, Mohit is strongly convinced that 2024 and the following years are poised for the Asia-Pacific-Japan region to lead the charge in the upcoming economic resurgence. While other parts of the globe may be struggling, the region is not.
“America may sneeze and Europe have a cold, but the Asia-Pacific-Japan region remains robust. Despite the S&P500 hitting record highs, its ascent has been largely driven by the prowess of seven tech giants – Meta, Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple Tesla, and Nvidia. Now is the time for APJ to shine, and we must be prepared to seize the opportunity.”
However, there was a hint of concern in his tone. While high connectivity and growth hold immense promise, they may also carry a price tag, and it’s imperative for the world to remain vigilant and mindful of this reality.
“Beyond a doubt, the next cyber phase of the Russia-Ukraine war will echo in Asia[i],” he says, “The impact will be profound, but only 49% of organisations globally have a business continuity plan[ii].”
The growth in the region can be credited to most businesses being focused on customer needs. Personalisation, using a vast amount of digital tools at speed, has seen growth in the region. But who is monitoring all these tools? Have businesses bolted too many without having visibility across their entire network?
In this milieu, technologies such as AI, robotics, blockchain, and IoT devices are playing pivotal roles in reshaping industries, enhancing efficiency, and adapting to new challenges, illustrating the profound impact of technology on our response to global crises.
AI continues to revolutionise enterprises with applications like chatbots, disrupting traditional workplace dynamics and significantly enhancing customer service. Moreover, in healthcare, AI-powered disease prediction systems are transforming early diagnosis and treatment strategies, significantly impacting patient outcomes and public health.
Additionally, AI’s integration with the Internet of Things (IoT) is turning homes and cities into smart hubs, offering residents improved efficiency and convenience. This interconnectedness enables seamless communication and data sharing among devices, fostering a connected ecosystem for enhanced living experiences.
Similarly, in the finance industry, Mohit observes, the pivotal role of blockchain technology is revolutionising finance and supply chain management, “Blockchain’s decentralised and secure nature is streamlining transactions, reducing fraud, and improving transparency in these sectors.”
While acknowledging the transformative potential of AI and blockchain, Mohit also highlights the sustainability and regulatory challenges intertwined with these innovations. Expressing concerns about the environmental impact of AI and IoT devices, he emphasises the imperative for robust regulations to safeguard user data and ensure ethical AI development.
Mohit advocates for a comprehensive approach to technological advancement, emphasising sustainability and ethical considerations alongside accessibility and inclusivity. This mindset encompasses ethical expansion, equal access, and risk management in the development and implementation of new technologies. In this context, collaboration and awareness are crucial in ensuring the equitable distribution of the benefits of technological progress across society
“External factors like global conflicts, natural calamities and supply chain disruptions have a significant impact on businesses worldwide, leading to an increased demand for advanced observability solutions,” Mohit asserts. “Improved visibility enables companies to effectively mitigate risks and navigate these challenges.”
In this precarious landscape, the pivotal role of cutting-edge is evident, offering vast potential for innovation and efficiency, yet also presenting significant risks, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity.
He pointed out eight crucial factors that will help leapfrog APJ. These are the rise of AI and Automation, Internet Penetration and Mobile Adoption, E-Commerce Boom, Rapid Urbanisation and Infrastructure Development, Shift to Cloud Computing, Data Privacy and Security Concerns, Changing Consumer Behaviour, Remote work and Digital Collaboration, and Government Initiatives. Each one of these pillars is accelerating change in the region.
He cautioned that this surge in growth will inevitably breed regional competition. As an illustration, he pointed to Taylor Swift’s exclusivity to Singapore, leaving neighbouring countries in dismay, showcasing how the nation effectively ring-fenced her presence within its borders.
The boom in internet connectivity also designates the region as the next target. While it’s true that everyone is getting connected, with billions of regional openings, it undoubtedly carries a price. The lingering question is: who is responsible for educating these billions that cybersecurity begins at home?
Mohit remarked that the region is undergoing a Terraforming phase, shaping APJ to exemplify the future in both physical and virtual dimensions, with a focus on sustainable development technological advancement, inclusivity and safety at its core.
Mohit urges policymakers and organisational leaders to harness the capabilities of Generative AI effectively in countering cyber threats, stressing the importance of ethical AI development. He suggests a balanced approach that not only enhances cybersecurity measures but also upholds ethical principles, ensuring the responsible use of AI technologies to safeguard digital ecosystems and protect user privacy.
Maximising the deployment of security tools offers a solution to the shortage of staff, enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture. These tools not only empower existing professionals but also promote a more proactive and effective security stance.
Concerns regarding AI in cybersecurity encompass potential privacy breaches, undetectable phishing attempts, and an overall surge in attack volume and velocity. To leverage AI technologies more efficiently, Mohit proposed consolidating AI tools to streamline integration and deployment for businesses.
He recommends implementing advanced observability solutions for all systems to optimise their performance, identify issues, and support continuous improvement. Observability platforms offer elevated visibility and flexibility, substantially strengthening the organisation’s working posture. By leveraging these platforms, businesses can promptly identify and address potential threats with enhanced accuracy and effectiveness, thus enhancing their overall cybersecurity resilience.
“We are fine but vulnerable,” is Mohit’s caveat. “The future of technology lies in the hands of those who prioritise ethical growth, equitable access, and risk mitigation in their endeavours.”
Despite the adverse effects of technology, including job displacement and cybersecurity vulnerabilities, organisations can respond by investing in upskilling their workforce, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and promoting ethical AI development to mitigate risks effectively. By prioritising these initiatives, all sectors can navigate the challenges posed by technological advancements while ensuring responsible and sustainable integration of technology into their operations.
Mohit also advocates strongly for partnerships, urging each partner to become a change agent, spreading awareness and explaining technology as it remains misunderstood by many. He urges them to actively disseminate knowledge and demystify technology, recognising that its complexities are often difficult to embrace and adopt by a significant portion of the population.
Mohit believes that platforms, like the SolarWinds Transform Partner Summit, underscore the imperative of responsible and ethical technology use, echoing his advocacy for harnessing technological advancements for societal betterment. It acknowledges the importance of collaboratively tackling sustainability and regulatory hurdles, stressing the necessity of proactive measures to address potential adverse effects.
The significance of fostering collaboration among governments, industries, and civil society cannot be overstated when it comes to establishing environments that both encourage innovation and mitigate potential risks associated with emerging technologies.
By working together, these stakeholders can develop comprehensive regulatory frameworks that strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding against potential harm. This collaborative approach not only builds trust in AI technologies but also lays the foundation for their long-term success by ensuring they are deployed ethically and responsibly.
“Innovation and regulation must work together hand-in-hand to guarantee that technologies are not only developed but also utilised responsibly,” Mohit is convinced. “This symbiotic relationship ensures that advancements in technology are guided by ethical principles and legal frameworks, fostering a safer and more equitable digital landscape for all stakeholders involved.”
As APJ embraces digital terraforming to reshape its economic terrain, collaboration, and strategic partnerships emerge as key drivers in charting a sustainable and secure future in the digital age. Through collective action and forward-thinking strategies, APJ stands poised to harness the power of technology for societal betterment and economic prosperity in the years to come.
The SolarWinds Transform Partner Summit APJ serves as a beacon of hope amidst global uncertainties, providing an opportunity for industry leaders to navigate the complex digital landscape with resilience and innovation.
[i] The Diplomat, Feb 2023
[ii] invenioIT, July 2023
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Indonesia’s digital economy is on a path of acceleration, with projections indicating a substantial economic contribution of up to US$366 billion by 2030. This growth is intricately intertwined with the widespread adoption and effective utilisation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology across various industries. However, this rapid expansion also underscores the urgent need for more robust regulatory frameworks governing AI’s ethical and responsible use to mitigate potential societal harm.
This imperative was underscored in a Public Discussion titled “The Need to Develop Regulations for Artificial Intelligence Governance. The Faculty of Philosophy UGM organised them in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kominfo) and the policy research and advocacy.
Key speakers such as Deputy Minister of Communication and Information Technology Nezar Patria, Dean of the Faculty of Philosophy UGM, Dr Siti Murtiningsih, Director of Government Relations Microsoft Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam Ajar Edi, Executive Director of the Policy Research and Advocacy, Wahyudi Djafar, and Head of the Artificial Intelligence Master’s Programme at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences UGM, Afiahayati, PhD offered insights.
Deputy Minister, Nezar Patria, highlighted that the current contribution of the digital economy to the GDP still needs to be 10%. He emphasised the significant influence of AI technology adoption on the growth of the digital economy.
Consequently, Kominfo issued guidelines in December 2023 for the ethical use of AI, targeting AI developers and industrial sectors. Given AI’s impacts on society, economy, and culture, these guidelines aim to address ethical considerations.
The Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has advocated for using cutting-edge technology to enhance Indonesia’s global competitiveness. Nezar stressed the importance of aligning AI policies with international trends to ensure Indonesia’s optimal position in AI development and utilisation. This focus will directly impact the growth of domestic sectors.
Nezar acknowledged that the current AI guidelines lack legal enforceability as they need to be integrated into legislation. However, the government is actively monitoring AI’s growth in Indonesian industries. Nezar explained that they are moving towards soft regulation by observing the industry’s growth, aiming to maximise benefits while mitigating risks.
Some potential risks associated with AI use, as highlighted by Nezar, include the significant likelihood of AI misuse leading to social discrimination and the emergence of disinformation products that could disrupt social harmony.
In addition to providing ethical guidelines for AI usage in industries, Kominfo is also actively fostering digital talent development to support the digital economy’s growth over the next five to six years. “We require 9 million digital talents,” Nezar emphasised.
Dr Siti Murtiningsih emphasised that in an era of rapidly advancing information and communication technology, the emergence of AI poses ethical challenges. Consequently, AI’s development must align with moral and ethical values in society without compromising humanitarian principles.
She stressed the need for more robust legal frameworks to address societal and industrial interests related to AI usage. “We need to formulate laws that uphold the ethical principles of AI from a multidisciplinary perspective,” she asserted.
Ajar Edi noted that there are many misconceptions about AI in society. However, for executives and staff in companies, AI is primarily used to support tasks and work, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. “Although there is potential for bias, human decision-makers are still the most appropriate to ensure sound decision-making,” he concluded.
Indonesia’s digital economy holds immense promise for growth, contingent on responsible AI governance and digital talent development. Establishing clear ethical guidelines and legal frameworks for AI usage will be pivotal in maximising its benefits while mitigating potential risks. Successfully regulated AI usage will result in organised outputs, ensuring the necessary values, ethics, and controls are observed for national interests.