Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the legislation represents a ‘game changer’ that ensures the country’s legal system remains relevant amid rapid technological advancement, while enhancing protection for the public against cybercrime. — Bernama pic Earn a fixed rate of up to 4.2%* p.a. for 210 days with Versa Save! Plus, enjoy an additional FREE RM10 when you sign up using code VERSAMM10 with a min. cash-in of RM100 today. T&Cs apply. By Anis Zalani Wednesday, 01 Jul 2026 7:52 PM MYT KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 — The Dewan Rakyat has passed the Cybercrime Bill, marking a significant step in Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its legal and enforcement framework against increasingly complex online threats.The Bill was passed with a majority vote following debate by 48 government and opposition Members of Parliament today.Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the legislation represents a “game changer” that ensures the country’s legal system remains relevant amid rapid technological advancement, while enhancing protection for the public against cybercrime.Ahmad Zahid explained it was not intended to restrict freedom of expression or suppress differing opinions, but to focus specifically on cyber offences and digital security.He added that none of the powers provided under the Bill are absolute, stressing that all investigative actions will be subject to strict legal procedures, oversight mechanisms, and checks and balances.“Indeed, maintaining an appropriate balance between effective law enforcement and the protection of fundamental rights has been a guiding principle in drafting this Bill. “The government wishes to assure the House that none of the powers provided under this Bill are absolute or exercised without oversight,” he said during his wind-up speech.On concerns over access to computer systems and data, he said enforcement officers would only be permitted to access specific data relevant to investigations, and only when there is reasonable suspicion that such data may be altered or destroyed.The Bill, he said, must also be read in harmony with existing laws such as the Official Secrets Act 1972, ensuring that sensitive government information remains protected.Ahmad Zahid also addressed concerns over artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake technology, acknowledging its benefits in improving productivity and innovation, but warning of its misuse in fraud, impersonation, and digital manipulation.He clarified that AI-generated content would not be criminalised solely for being produced by AI, and that prosecution would still require proof of criminal intent and wrongful conduct.“In addressing these challenges, the government has taken several steps, including the establishment of the Cyber Security and Cryptology Development Centre on June 3. This centre integrates CyberSecurity Malaysia and the Malaysia Cryptology Technology and Management Centre, and is placed under the supervision of the National Security Council.“It will play a key role in providing specialist expertise, including AI forensics, by bringing together experts from universities, industry, and enforcement agencies,” he added.On cybercrime protection for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly, he said the Bill introduces specific offences to strengthen safeguards against financial scams, sexual exploitation, and non-consensual distribution of intimate content.He also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve the speed of content removal, as well as the role of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the National Scam Response Centre, which operates 24 hours a day to coordinate responses to online fraud.Ahmad Zahid also said that cybercrime cases have risen sharply, increasing from 25,479 cases in 2022 to 66,204 last year, underscoring the need for stronger enforcement and public awareness.“PDRM remains the primary enforcement agency responsible for criminal investigations. It continues to serve as the lead agency in handling criminal cases.“The National Cyber Security Agency will continue to act as the strategic coordinator, while MCMC, Bank Negara Malaysia, financial institutions, and other technology related agencies will continue to perform their respective roles in accordance with their jurisdictions.“Each agency will operate within its legal mandate, while strengthening coordination to ensure more effective enforcement against cybercrime,” he said.On digital identity, he said the MyDigital ID system serves as a secure authentication platform and does not store personal data, which remains under the National Registration Department.He said the initiative is intended to prevent identity misuse and strengthen the security of government service delivery systems.He expressed hope that the Bill would ensure the national legal framework remains relevant in line with technological developments, while also strengthening enforcement capacity and protecting the public from increasingly complex cybercrime threats.