Digital transformation is reshaping economies, societies, and industries, the promise of connectivity and innovation is tempered by a growing shadow: cybersecurity threats.
As organisations and governments across the globe integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things, the vulnerabilities within digital ecosystems multiply.
Cyberattacks, once sporadic and isolated, have become more sophisticated, frequent, and far-reaching, targeting critical infrastructure, private enterprises, and individuals alike.
Safeguarding the digital realm is no longer a choice but an imperative – one that requires collective effort, strategic foresight, and unwavering commitment to resilience.
Amidst the surging tides of digital transformation, ASEAN is not excluded from facing the burgeoning threat of cyberattacks.
These digital intrusions, targeting critical information infrastructure and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) alike, pose an economic and reputational threat to the region’s digital ecosystem.
According to the policy brief ‘Strengthening ASEAN’s Cybersecurity: Collaborative Strategies for Enhanced Resilience and Regional Cooperation’ by Manager for Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy Mahirah Mahusin and Research Associate Hilmy Prilliadi, both at the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), decisive action is paramount.
A FRAGILE DIGITAL LANDSCAPE
ASEAN’s expanding digital economy is not without vulnerabilities. In 2023, economic losses from data breaches in the region soared to USD3.05 million, reflecting a consistent rise from USD2.87 million in 2022 (IBM, 2023). The situation is starkly dire in individual member states; Indonesia, for instance, bore cyberattack costs of USD4.79 billion in 2022, with projections hinting at USD6.5 billion by 2028 (Statista, 2023).
Such incidents not only drain financial resources but also erode public trust in digital platforms.
While the ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy 2021–2025 outlines key pillars to enhance regional resilience, Mahusin and Prilliadi note gaps in implementation.
The absence of a unified cybersecurity taxonomy, coupled with a shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals, hampers coordinated responses and weakens operational capacities across member states.
STRENGTH IN COLLABORATION
The policy brief stresses the need for a cohesive, multi-stakeholder approach to cybersecurity. Governments, private sectors and international bodies must join hands to address evolving cyber threats effectively.
At the core of the recommendations is the operationalisation of the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), which aims to enhance regional information sharing and response mechanisms.
Public–private partnerships (PPPs) also emerge as a critical component of the strategy.
Despite some ASEAN Member States establishing comprehensive response networks, many rely solely on government-driven initiatives, leaving SMEs – 43 per cent of cyberattack targets – particularly exposed.
Mahirah and Hilmy advocate for cost-effective cybersecurity guidelines for these enterprises, bolstered by government-backed certifications to ensure international compliance.
INVESTING IN TOMORROW
The ASEAN region’s digital future hinges on its ability to invest in capacity-building initiatives. The report underscores the importance of strengthening the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence and the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Centre.
These institutions can bridge existing skill gaps and foster a robust workforce adept at combating cyber threats.
Moreover, the development of a regional cybersecurity taxonomy is paramount. A unified framework would streamline communication and coordination during cyber emergencies, enabling member states to respond more effectively to incidents of varying magnitudes.
THE ROAD AHEAD
As cyber threats grow increasingly sophisticated, the authors’ call to action rings clear: ASEAN must prioritise cybersecurity as a cornerstone of its digital economy.
By adopting the recommendations outlined in the policy brief, the region can bolster its defences, ensuring a secure and resilient digital landscape that supports both innovation and economic growth.
In the words of the authors, “Enhanced cybersecurity is crucial for ASEAN’s digital economy growth.”
Their vision for collaborative resilience offers a pathway to not only safeguard the region but also to empower it as a trusted leader in the digital era. – Izah Azahari
