KUALA LUMPUR: Puncak Borneo Member of Parliament (MP), Datuk Willie Mongin, has proposed that representatives from Sabah and Sarawak be appointed to national committees tasked with combating cybercrime.
He said their inclusion is essential to ensure more inclusive and effective cybersecurity policies.
Speaking during the debate on the Cyber Crime Bill in the Dewan Rakyat today, Willie said the participation of representatives from the two Bornean states would ensure that local perspectives and challenges are adequately reflected in the country’s cybersecurity framework.
He said internet usage patterns, the level of digital infrastructure and the nature of cyber threats in Sabah and Sarawak differ from those in Peninsular Malaysia, making regional representation crucial in policy formulation.
“Local perspectives must be taken into account to ensure that policies are practical and responsive to the unique circumstances faced by communities in Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.
Willie stressed that cybersecurity policies should reflect the spirit of the Federation by considering the interests of all states rather than being shaped solely by conditions in Peninsular Malaysia.
“As a Federation, every policy relating to cybersecurity should take into consideration the interests of all states,” he said, adding that equal participation at the national level would ensure Sabah and Sarawak have an equal voice on issues affecting the country’s digital security.
He also said local representatives could improve coordination among enforcement agencies, facilitate faster information sharing, and ensure preventive measures are implemented according to local needs.
According to Willie, representatives from Sabah and Sarawak are also well placed to strengthen cybersecurity awareness and education programmes, particularly in rural areas where internet access and digital literacy remain key challenges.
He noted that their understanding of local communities would enable more targeted and effective public education initiatives.
While expressing his support for the Bill, Willie emphasised that its implementation must balance national security with the protection of fundamental rights.
He said enforcement powers granted under the proposed law should be accompanied by appropriate checks and balances, transparency, and effective oversight mechanisms to prevent any abuse of power.
“The implementation of this Bill must always strike a balance between security needs and the protection of fundamental rights, including the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and the principles of justice,” he said.
Willie also urged the government to continue strengthening digital literacy programmes, deepen collaboration with industry players, and expand international cooperation to tackle cybercrime, which he described as inherently transnational.
“A comprehensive approach will ensure that efforts to combat cybercrime are more effective,” he said.
In supporting the Cyber Crime Bill, Willie said cyber threats have become increasingly sophisticated and now pose significant risks to national security, economic stability, and public well-being.
He noted that online scams, attacks on critical infrastructure, theft of personal data, and the spread of malicious software are no longer isolated incidents but have evolved into serious challenges requiring modern and effective legislation.
He said the proposed law would strengthen the authorities’ ability to investigate, prevent and prosecute cybercriminals while enhancing public confidence in the security of Malaysia’s digital ecosystem.
“The Bill is important in strengthening the capacity of the authorities to investigate, prevent and prosecute cybercriminals, while at the same time enhancing public confidence in the security of the nation’s digital space,” he said.
