Teo Nie Ching: 2025 - An Auspicious Year or the Dawn of the “Cyber Age”?
Deputy Minister of Communications

As we step into 2025, artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept of the future but a deeply integrated part of our daily lives. However, alongside the immense power of technology come equally complex challenges and threats. It is our responsibility to confront these issues and provide robust protection and guidance for the Malaysian people.

In recent years, the rapid global development of AI has brought astonishing applications. Yet, this same technology has been exploited by malicious actors. From deepfake techniques that forge voices and images to sophisticated phishing scams, these threats are increasingly difficult to guard against.

Between January and October 2024 alone, Malaysia suffered losses amounting to RM1.224 billion due to cybercrime. This includes scams such as online fraud, telecommunications crimes, e-finance scams, romance frauds, e-commerce frauds, and fake loan and investment schemes. Criminals are continuously leveraging advanced technologies, including AI and automation, to enhance their methods, making fraud more intricate and harder to detect. This reality underscores that AI brings not just innovation and convenience but also an invisible war to our doorstep.

To me, the most effective stance against fraud is not a passive one. Instead, we should proactively listen, observe, and absorb fraud prevention knowledge from multiple sources. Always maintain a skeptical and verification-first attitude.

The Perils of AI
AI’s most "terrifying" aspect lies in its ability to quickly learn and simulate human behavior. For instance, AI-generated voices can mimic those of loved ones to gain trust. Using deepfake technology, criminals can create realistic videos to spread fake news or commit blackmail. As the technology matures, even the general public struggles to differentiate between real and fake. Furthermore, AI can analyze users' online habits to craft more targeted scams. This seemingly "flawless" technology renders traditional fraud prevention methods less effective.

Government Measures to Address AI-Driven Cybersecurity Challenges
The Malaysian government has already taken steps to address these challenges. For instance, the Ministry of Communications is working with relevant agencies to enhance the cybersecurity legislation framework, ensuring clear legal recourse for AI-related cybercrimes. To raise public awareness of AI scams, the government has launched nationwide campaigns like the “Anti-Fraud Awareness Month.”

On the technical support front, Malaysia has established the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) this year as a one-stop anti-fraud hub. Additionally, tools like the police’s anti-scam mobile application and website Semak Mule, as well as platforms provided by the Securities Commission, enable citizens to verify suspicious individuals, companies, bank accounts, and phone numbers effectively.

Conclusion
As we navigate the opportunities and threats of AI, it’s essential for all Malaysians to stay vigilant. Let us foster a culture of awareness, skepticism, and proactive action to safeguard ourselves and others. Together, we can confront these emerging challenges and ensure that 2025 is not just a prosperous year but a safe one as well.