DR MOHD Ariffin said there were 500,000 attempts to hack government application systems and websites as cyber security is live and it is a constant battle.
“In February 2021, it was reported that 11 men aged between 20 and 40 were arrested in raids conducted in Pahang, Johor, Perak and Klang Valley.
“They were all suspected members of Anonymous Malaysia, the hacker group which was allegedly responsible for defacing websites belonging to several government bodies, including the Sabah government.
“However, it is not known whether they were then subsequently tried and punished,” he said.
On how Sabah can benefit from digital technology to boost the State’s economic growth, Dr Mohd Arifin said Sabah can experience significant economic growth by strategically embracing digital technology. Implementing e-government services, investing in digital infrastructure, and fostering a culture of digital entrepreneurship can streamline processes, attract investments, and stimulate innovation.
“Promoting e-commerce, leveraging digital tools for tourism, and applying smart agriculture practices can expand market reach, enhance tourist experiences, and increase agricultural productivity.
“Additionally, prioritising digital education and skills development and adopting data-driven decision-making, contribute to a resilient and sustainable economic landscape.
By embracing these initiatives, Sabah can position itself for long-term economic success, creating a dynamic and competitive environment,” he said.