Kuala Lumpur: Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution stressed the importance of cross-intelligence sharing among regional partners to create a secure buffer zone in the ASEAN region. Delivering his keynote address at the Asia International Security Summit and Expo 2025 (AISSE 2025) here today, he emphasised that it is vital to foster peace and security within the region amidst complex modern challenges.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Saifuddin underscored the necessity for Malaysia to plan and execute security measures proactively to prevent lapses. He highlighted that cross-intelligence sharing among regional partners is essential to establish a safe buffer zone, aiming to mitigate the widespread impact of conflicts, particularly with ongoing instability in the Gaza Strip, Russia, Ukraine, and Sudan.
Saifuddin Nasution further noted that peacebuilding and civilisational engagement are crucial for achieving sustainable development and promoting inclusive, multicultural, and multi-regional societies. He raised concerns about the growing threat of transnational crime, including human trafficking, migrant smuggling, illicit drug trades, cybercrime, maritime piracy, and trafficking of environmental resources, firearms, and counterfeit goods.
He added that the Malaysian government has outlined several strategies for enhancing national security under the MADANI Principles introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Saifuddin highlighted the October 2024 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, which warns of significant security challenges in ASEAN as a direct threat to regional peace if not addressed seriously.
Meanwhile, he mentioned the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where ASEAN leaders will discuss regional security, law enforcement, collaboration, and information sharing. This summit, he said, is a testament to the concerted efforts to enhance regional security and solidify the ASEAN partnership, in line with the ASEAN Political-Security Community's goals.
Saifuddin also addressed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) as a game changer, acknowledging its potential risks as perpetrators increasingly exploit it for criminal activities. He stressed the need to accelerate AI adoption in crime-fighting efforts and prioritize workforce upskilling, mastering of advanced tools, and development of innovative solutions to counter emerging threats.