KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry is studying the proposal to recruit hackers as part of its efforts to strengthen the country's defence system, as well as to develop its Force of the Future.
Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the team would focus on non-traditional threats, such as cyber security, digital threats and electromagnetic defence.
"Analysts predict that the battle of power will involve more sophisticated technology such as 'unmanned drones' and digitally controlled assets.
"This is why we should look seriously at the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence (AI), big data and digitisation in the ministry and the Armed Forces," he told a press conference after the kick-off and launch of the Mid-term Review of the Defence White Paper at Wisma Perwira, here, today.
Khaled added the team would further strengthen the control and monitoring system in the waters and borders of the country from any threats, including smuggling.
"We are neighbours with many countries and we were made to understand that smugglers use drones to monitor our security forces presence and would go elsewhere.
"So now, how we can effectively disable their drones so that our controls at the borders are more effective," he said.
Earlier, in his speech, Khaled said the Defence White Paper (DWP) stands as a testament to the nation's unwavering commitment to safeguarding security, fostering prosperity, and nurturing well-being.
"As we doing this Mid-term Review of the Defence White Paper, it becomes imperative to conduct a comprehensive review.
"Numerous developments on local, regional, and global scales necessitate a recalibration of our defence strategies and priorities," he said.