The Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, has stated the critical need for regional cooperation in addressing the escalating threat posed by cyber attacks.

His remarks were delivered during the Asia Pacific Region Information Communication Ministerial Meeting, a high-level forum convened to discuss the evolving landscape of digital development and security across the region.

In his address, Minister Ihusaan acknowledged the transformative impact of technology and innovation on contemporary life, noting that digital advancements have significantly enhanced accessibility and efficiency across numerous sectors. He reaffirmed the Maldivian Government’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s technological infrastructure, emphasising that recent policy initiatives are designed to ensure that all citizens can equitably benefit from digital progress.

Among these initiatives is the Government’s newly launched Digital Transformation Policy, a strategic framework aimed at expanding access to digital tools and services nationwide. Minister Ihusaan also highlighted President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s “Digital First Nation” policy, which was introduced last month. This initiative, he noted, forms a central pillar of the broader Maldives 2.0 vision - a national roadmap designed to drive digital transformation, foster economic development, and enhance public service delivery and access to information.

While outlining the Government’s digital ambitions, the Minister also addressed the growing risks associated with technological advancement. He cautioned that cybercrime has emerged as a pressing concern, with individuals and businesses increasingly falling victim to data breaches and financial exploitation. Such activities, he warned, undermine public trust and threaten the stability of digital ecosystems.

To counter these threats, Minister Ihusaan called for the development of comprehensive legal and policy frameworks to effectively deter and prosecute cybercriminal activities. Furthermore, he urged Asia Pacific nations to strengthen their collective response through enhanced collaboration, information sharing, and the adoption of harmonised cybersecurity strategies. 

The Maldives, a member of the APT since 1980, continues to play an active role in advancing regional dialogue on innovation, security, and digital resilience.