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Technology · Malaysia Bureau

Modern laws needed to tackle technology-driven crime, says Saifuddin

Malaysia's Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution has called for legislative reforms to address crimes enabled by rapid technological advancement. The minister said existing legal frameworks require updating to effectively combat emerging security threats in the digital age.

LSN Malaysia · 3 September 2026

Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution stressed the importance of modernising Malaysia's legal system to keep pace with technological innovations that have fundamentally altered criminal activity. Speaking in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday, Saifuddin noted that the rapid evolution of technology has created new vulnerabilities that traditional laws struggle to address effectively.

The minister highlighted that cybercriminals and other offenders increasingly exploit technological gaps to carry out their activities, from online fraud and data theft to digital extortion. He emphasised that law enforcement agencies require robust legal instruments to investigate, prosecute and prevent such crimes.

Saifuddin's remarks underscore growing concerns among Malaysian authorities about the widening gap between technology adoption and regulatory frameworks. The government has previously signalled intentions to strengthen cybersecurity legislation and enhance penalties for technology-enabled offences.

The Home Ministry has been working with relevant agencies to assess current laws and identify areas requiring amendment or new provisions to better protect citizens and businesses operating in Malaysia's increasingly digital economy.