








GE2025: Singapore, tech platforms gear up to counter cyber threats ahead of election
As the 2025 General Election approaches, the risk of digital interference – whether subtle or overt – is once again under scrutiny.
Political parties here said they have stepped up efforts to secure their data and digital infrastructure, while tech platforms have moved to act more decisively against falsehoods and manipulated content. The Government has also signalled its intent to be vigilant against electoral misinformation.

Cybersecurity is national security: Why Malaysia needs a legal framework for cyber warfare
The recent cyber attack on Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), where hackers allegedly demanded a US$10 million (RM44.37 million) ransom, was not just an attack on a corporation — it was an attack on Malaysia’s national security.
This incident is a stark reminder that in today’s world, wars are no longer fought solely with missiles and tanks, but with algorithms and malware. At the same time, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) has raised concerns over the need to strengthen cyber, drone, and nuclear warfare capabilities, including discussions on forming a dedicated cyber force. This is a step in the right direction.

GE2025: Singapore, tech platforms gear up to counter cyber threats ahead of election (Copy)
Cybersecurity activities targeting government websites have increased following the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte, an official of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) confirmed yesterday.
DICT Undersecretary Jeffrey Ian Dy said the attacks related to Duterte’s arrest can be traced mostly to local hackers, many of whom are attempting to deface government websites.

Indonesia to Launch New GovTech Super App, Require Bank Accounts for Social Assistance Distribution
JAKARTA: The Indonesian government will develop a super application integrating all online services provided by ministries and state agencies, and require every family to have a bank account for timely distribution of social assistance, said Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, chairman of the National Economic Council.
President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch the GovTech (Government Technology) super app during the country’s Independence Day celebrations on Aug 17 this year, Luhut said on Wednesday (Mar 19), reported news outlet Jakarta Globe.

Thailand Approves $2.7 billion of Investments in Data Centres, Cloud Services
Thailand has approved 90.9 billion baht ($2.7 billion) worth of investments in data centres and cloud services, its investment board said on Monday, the latest additions to the country's expanding tech sector.
The projects include data centres from China’s Beijing Haoyang Cloud&Data Technology, Singapore-based Empyrion Digital, and Thai company, GSA Data Center 02, it said.

AI-driven cybersecurity: A game-changer for organisations in the Philippines
Digital transformation has unlocked significant opportunities for Philippine organizations to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and boost revenue growth. However, this progress also brings substantial cybersecurity risks.
A recent report by the ASEAN Innovation Business Platform (AIBP), titled Cybersecurity in the Philippines, in partnership with Fortinet, highlights these concerns. Among surveyed Philippine organizations, 45% identified cybersecurity and privacy concerns as top challenges associated with their digital transformation efforts.

Malaysia can Leverage 'Blockchain' Technology in Various Sectors
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of developing local talent in blockchain technology so that investments in the sector can benefit Malaysians.
In a Facebook post, he said Malaysia has great potential in that field.
The country can also leverage blockchain technology in various sectors, including the government services sector, the halal industry, and it's not limited to the financial and digital asset sectors alone.

SME Bank Projects Malaysia's Growth at 4.5%-5% for 2025
Malaysia's economy is projected to grow between 4.5% and 5.0% in 2025, according to SME Bank. This forecast is driven by robust household spending, favorable labor market conditions, strong investments, and a recovery in external trade. SME Bank remains committed to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), recognizing their vital role in the nation's economic landscape.

Canada and the Philippines Strengthen Cyber Security Partnership
Canada has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its cybersecurity partnership with the Philippines by providing expert training to the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC). During a visit to the National Cybercrime Hub in Taguig City, Canadian Ambassador David Hartman emphasized that this collaboration aims to bolster the Philippines' digital infrastructure and enhance national security.

Vietnam’s FPT Partners with Indonesia’s Pertamina to Deploy AI in Energy Sector
Vietnam's FPT Corporation has entered into a strategic partnership with Indonesia's national oil company, Pertamina, to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) solutions into the energy sector. This collaboration aims to enhance efficiency and safety in offshore drilling and energy infrastructure maintenance by deploying AI-powered systems to monitor operations and detect anomalies.

SNS Network Partners with Nvidia to Launch Malaysia’s First Fully Managed AI Cloud Service
SNS Network has teamed up with Nvidia to introduce Malaysia's first fully managed AI cloud service, hosted at the Klang Valley data center in Cyberjaya. This groundbreaking initiative is set to accelerate AI adoption, offering scalable GPU-as-a-service solutions powered by Nvidia Hopper GPUs and Dell servers. Discover how this partnership is shaping the future of AI in Malaysia.