Singapore and Malaysia sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance their cooperation in fighting scams across telecommunication channels, marking a significant step towards regional security.
On 25 February 2024, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) of Singapore and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) solidified their commitment to combating telecommunication scams by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This pivotal agreement was reached in Barcelona, Spain, during the prestigious Mobile World Congress, highlighting the international context of the fight against telecom fraud.
Scams, especially those perpetrated through telecommunications channels, are a growing concern that knows no borders, demanding robust international collaboration. Singapore and Malaysia, sharing not just geographical proximity but also a strong determination to thwart scams, have previously worked together on various fronts, including cross-border enforcement actions against scammers. The signing of this MOU underscores Malaysia’s crucial role as a partner to Singapore in fostering regional cooperation to tackle these challenges.
The MOU was signed by Mr. Lew Chuen Hong, Chief Executive of IMDA, and Tan Sri Mohamad Salim bin Fateh Din, Chairman of MCMC. It aims to bolster cross-border exchange of strategic intelligence and coordinate efforts to safeguard citizens of both nations from scam activities. Key areas of collaboration under the MOU include regulatory assistance, research and education on scam calls and texts, and mutual exchange of knowledge through training programs and staff exchanges.
IMDA’s engagement in this MOU is part of a broader strategy to adopt a global stance against the threat of telecommunication scams. The authority has previously entered into similar agreements with international counterparts like New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs, the United States Federal Communications Commission, and Australia’s Communications and Media Authority. This latest partnership with MCMC is a testament to Singapore’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international alliances against telecom scams.
Source – IMDA
