ASEAN Must Prepare To Face Non-State Actor Threats - Mohamed Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- ASEAN member states must remain vigilant and united in addressing emerging security risks posed by non-state actors, said Malaysia's Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

He said regional security challenges were no longer confined to traditional conflicts such as territorial disputes in the South China Sea.

“We are highlighting or anticipating all issues, threats and challenges so that ASEAN member states can come together and work collectively,” he told reporters after a media walkabout held in conjunction with the 19th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) here today.

The 19th ADMM and the 12th ADMM-Plus Meeting are being held from today until  Nov 2, with participation from the eight Plus dialogue partner countries namely the United States, Russia, Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

Mohamed Khaled said potential threats could now arise from cyberspace or even private entities developing technologies that could be weaponised.

"A threat now may come from a non-state actor, it may be a company that develops a technology used to attack any country. That is a threat," he said.

He said ASEAN must explore collective strategies to address such unconventional threats, which could target member states through cyberattacks or technological disruptions.

"It’s not only about the South China Sea, threats can be from cyberspace. These are new challenges, and ASEAN must be ready. Cooperation among ASEAN countries is crucial to ensure the region remains stable, resilient and prepared for evolving forms of aggression," he added.

-- BERNAMA