KUALA LUMPUR: The government aims to combat online criminal activities by formulating a decisive policy through the collaboration of its Legal Affairs Division and the National Anti-Financial Crime Centre (NFCC).
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), Datuk Seri Azalina Othman, announced plans to bring about clarity in this matter through the amendment of existing laws and introducing a new specific law.
She said the government, in cooperation with academicians, will undertake an extensive three-month study. This study, set to commence in January of the upcoming year, will encompass comparative research and seek public input through consultations.
"In response to the increasing challenges posed by online criminal activities, the unity government is strengthening our efforts and commitment to combat such activities through legislative reforms in line with the current situation and technological advancements.
"The aim is to formulate a clear policy decision on an amendment to existing legislation and the enactment of a new law on procedures and powers to address online criminal activities comprehensively," she said in a statement issued today.
Azalina said the initiative would also reflect the government's ongoing efforts and commitment to continuously address online crime issues to ensure a safe digital environment for the people.
She added that a meeting was also held alongside the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC), police, the National Security Council (MKN), Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), which aimed to examine the challenges and existing law under various ministries or government agencies.
"As of Nov 30, the total loss reported amounted to RM173,339,234.73, and a total of 8,213 investigation papers by BNM, NFCC, MCMC and the police have been opened involving various provisions, including freezing 529 accounts with a value of RM65,939,700.51.
"(Hence), this (the meeting) is also to identify the challenges and existing laws related to online crime threats and identify comprehensive legislative measures to counteract such crimes."