Malaysia's defence ministry moves to counter rising cognitive warfare threats

At the Umno General Assembly, Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin highlighted the emergence of cognitive warfare, describing it as a systematic effort to shape how Malaysians think, assess information and act. He identified disinformation, digital propaganda, algorithm exploitation and AI as tools used to create social unrest and exacerbate religious or racial tensions. The Defence Ministry is crafting an integrated response that emphasizes strengthening the public's resilience as a deterrent.

Khaled cited Iran and Ukraine as examples of societies that have remained united despite similar attacks. He also called on Umno leaders to promote mature, rational politics and to help prevent their communities from falling prey to divisive propaganda. The party pledged support for the armed forces in bolstering national resilience and safeguarding Malaysia's security.