The National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) has successfully returned RM5.16 million to victims of online scams between January and July 2026, representing 65% of the RM7.94 million seized from scammers during this period, according to Malaysia’s Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
Speaking at a press conference held in conjunction with the 6th International Cyber Resilience Conference in Bangi, Saifuddin highlighted the collaborative efforts between the police and partner agencies involved in freezing and recovering stolen funds. He explained that the NSRC works by intercepting layers of illicit financial transactions to disrupt scam operations and return the money to affected individuals.
Drawing on data from the Global Anti-Scam Alliance, Saifuddin noted that scammers worldwide are estimated to steal over US$1 trillion annually. He further cited a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime report indicating that scam activities in Southeast Asia alone generate tens of billions of dollars each year. The Home Minister emphasized the growing global impact of cybercrime, with some estimates placing the total worldwide cost at more than US$10 trillion annually—surpassing the economies of Japan and Germany combined.
“Cybercrime is a global issue involving extensive syndicates and sophisticated methods, affecting victims in every country,” Saifuddin said. He stressed the need for comprehensive cooperation across government, industry, academia, technology providers, and international partners to effectively combat these crimes. He also underscored the importance of research, innovation, and expertise in developing effective responses amid the evolving nature of cyber threats.
Malaysia recorded 66,204 cybercrime cases in 2025, resulting in losses amounting to RM2.97 billion. This marked a significant increase compared with the previous year’s 35,368 cases and RM1.57 billion in losses, illustrating the accelerating scale of cyber threats within the country.
The Home Minister also discussed the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) on cybercrime. He explained that criminals are increasingly leveraging AI to create more sophisticated and difficult-to-trace offenses, while law enforcement agencies are simultaneously exploring AI as a tool for detection and defense. Saifuddin described generative AI as a major turning point in cybersecurity, capable of both enhancing criminal methods—such as generating convincing scam messages, deepfakes, and cloning voices—and enabling defenders to analyze vast data sets, identify fraud patterns, and trace stolen funds.
“If criminals master AI faster than defenders, we risk losing the fight regardless of technological investments,” Saifuddin warned, calling for ongoing investment in skills development and human capital. He emphasized the need for law enforcement officers trained in using AI tools, prosecutors and judges knowledgeable in digital evidence, and agencies employing data scientists alongside traditional investigators. He also highlighted the critical role of universities in producing graduates proficient in both cybersecurity and AI, as well as the necessity for continuous professional development in the field.
According to a survey conducted by the ministry’s policy division three years ago, Malaysia’s overall readiness to integrate AI into cybersecurity efforts stood at 75%. While acknowledging progress, Saifuddin stated that more improvements are needed and affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing in this area.