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As technology continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, the need to educate younger generations about their responsibilities and ethics in using digital tools has never been more urgent.
Deputy Minister of National Unity, Senator K. Saraswathy, highlighted Malaysia’s rich diversity as a cornerstone of the nation’s resilience and success during the launch of the Melaka 2024 Malaysiaku Merdeka event at the Melaka International Trade Centre, Ayer Keroh.
Saraswathy’s address highlighted the critical role of technology in shaping community relations as Malaysia advances towards digitalisation. She acknowledged the potential of digital transformation to serve as a foundation for national unity built on understanding, respect, and acceptance.
However, she also warned of the risks associated with uncontrolled technology use, such as information misuse, privacy erosion, and threats to national security. Managing this technological surge with caution is crucial, especially for the younger generation, who must navigate these challenges wisely.
In her speech, delivered on behalf of National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, Saraswathy called for a modernisation of processes involving government system operators and users to uphold the spirit of independence in the digital age. She emphasised the importance of continuously reinforcing the principles of the Rukun Negara, which serve as a guide to fostering a sense of identity, dignity, and ethical behaviour.
The Malaysiaku Merdeka programme, which features 80 initiatives designed to enhance National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations from July to September, aims to honour the values of independence, bolster patriotism, and deepen the public’s understanding of Malaysia’s historical journey.
On a broader scale, Malaysia is proactively addressing online safety through a comprehensive nationwide study and a series of focus group discussions led by Minister Datuk Seri Asalina Othman Said. The government is committed to developing a robust legal framework to tackle the challenges of online safety, drawing inspiration from global initiatives such as Australia’s Online Safety Act 2021 and Singapore’s Online Criminal Harms Act 2023. This initiative reflects Malaysia’s dedication to securing digital spaces under the MADANI government’s vision.
The forthcoming study and discussions will engage a wide range of participants, including civil society organisations, industry stakeholders, and the public. These efforts will culminate in the Malaysia Online Safety Legal Conference, a platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and advocacy for effective policies.
The goal is to standardise regulations to combat harmful online content, including child abuse materials, hate speech, and cyberbullying. This approach underscores the necessity of strong legislative measures to safeguard users and ensure a safe digital environment.
In addition to these regulatory efforts, Malaysia is advancing digital safety through several initiatives. Initiatives such as Klik Dengan Bijak (KDB) and Malaysia ICT Volunteer (MIV) are designed to educate the public about internet security. Johor has also made significant investments in broadband infrastructure, allocating funds to improve digital access across 63 hotspots. Cybersecurity Malaysia’s launch of the National Anti-Scam Tour Programme (JASK) further demonstrates the country’s proactive stance against online fraud.
These collective efforts highlight Malaysia’s commitment to balancing technological advancement with safety. By fostering responsible digital citizenship and promoting robust online safety measures, Malaysia aims to create a resilient digital environment. The country’s approach not only addresses immediate concerns related to online threats but also sets the stage for a more informed and ethical digital future.
Malaysia’s comprehensive strategy involves educating the younger generation on digital responsibilities, updating legal frameworks for online safety, and implementing practical measures to enhance digital security. By reinforcing these principles and initiatives, Malaysia seeks to ensure that its citizens can navigate the digital age safely and responsibly, reinforcing its position as a leader in digital governance and safeguarding national unity in an increasingly interconnected world.
