KUALA LUMPUR: Deeper commitment to strengthen collaboration between countries in combating cybercrime is needed, says Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin.

       The Home Minister said cooperation between countries was vital towards speeding up actions to curb cybercrimes.

       "To effectively combat cybercriminals, we need close cooperation from various countries as such crime transcends borders.

       "Right now, certain investigations take a long time as we need to go to certain countries and have discussions before we can proceed," he told reporters after witnessing the signings of an MOU and eight contracts during the Defence Services Asia and National Security Asia exhibition on Wednesday (March 30).

       If countries have agreed on closer collaboration, Hamzah said an understanding could be forged to ensure that cybercrime could be curbed as soon as possible.

       "We need the commitment of countries in dealing with cybercrime effectively," he said.

       Meanwhile on the MOU and contract signings, Hamzah said the MOU and eight contracts were worth RM2.596bil.

       "Among the contracts that have a high impact are the acquisition of X-Band satellite equipment for the police and the National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe) project.

       "The ministry is committed to putting national security as the main agenda in acquisition planning to ensure that security assets are in high-preparedness mode," he said.

       The signings of the MOU and contracts symbolised the government's efforts to ensure that the nation is protected from all forms of threats, he said.

       "We are in the midst of studying other applications and solutions needed for the country's security forces.

       "We are committed to not only merely planning acquisition but executing it as well," he added.