Jakarta (VNA) - Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono has underscored the need for stronger cross-sectoral synergy within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address regional security challenges, particularly cross-border cybercrime and online fraud.
Addressing the 30th ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC) Council Meeting on October 25 on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Sugiono said as the region becomes increasingly connected and dynamic, ASEAN member nations must strengthen their ability to tackle multidimensional challenges, including cross-border crime
According to a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the country calls on the APSC to boost coordination with the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) to develop coherent and comprehensive responses.
Indonesia also proposed an interface meeting between these sectoral bodies, along with deeper collaboration within the APSC itself.
Sugiono announced two key initiatives of Indonesia aimed at boosting ASEAN's preparedness and cooperation in combating cybercrime and online fraud threats that undermine regional security, economic stability, and social resilience.
The initiatives include the Police Cooperation Dialogue Forum for Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters, scheduled for October 27-29, and a simulation-based discussion on ASEAN Preparedness in Protecting Citizens Abroad, set for December 4-5. Both events will be held in Bali.
The minister said Indonesia welcomed the adoption of the ASEAN Declaration on Combating Cybercrime and Online Fraud last September, describing this as a strong reflection of ASEAN’s commitment to safeguarding its digital space and regional security.
He noted that this momentum is timely, ahead of the signing of the UN Convention against Cybercrime (also known as Hanoi Convention) in Vietnam on October 25–26./.
