Philippines proposes cyber security working group
SUBANG JAYA: The Philippines has proposed for the establishment of an expert working group on cyber security at the Asean Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) Retreat yesterday.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein told a press conference that at the meeting, the Asean defence ministers made the proposal after expressing their shared concern on the growing threat of terrorism and cyber and maritime security risks.
“During the meeting, we exchanged views on current regional, as well as international security and defence matters.
“On this note, we considered the establishment of the Expert Working Group in Plus Format on cyber security, as proposed by the Philippines,” Hishammuddin said during the ADMM Retreat at Saujana Golf and Country Club, near here, yesterday.
He said it is difficult for defence ministries to ensure the stability of Asean and its people as a whole.
“This is no easy task, especially given today’s inter- connected and punishingly complex security and political landscapes.
“Our united stand as well as our strong condemnation against Islamic State (IS) and similar organisations demonstrate the gravity and urgency of this problem. It sends a clear signal that we take the issue of terrorism seriously and will do whatever it takes to counter these threats together,” Hishammuddin said.
He added that the Asean defence ministries must continue to promote dialogue wherever they can and work together in achieving their common goal of maintaining regional peace and stability.