International Journal of Cyber Diplomacy / 2026, Volume 7

Information Warfare in ASEAN: Malaysia as a Critical Node in Regional FIMI Diffusion and Defence

Amirun Haqqim bin Eldeen HUSAINI , E Kin Zane Ryan SEOW , Karisma Putera bin Abd RAHMAN

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Abstract

The paper examines the growing threat of foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) in Southeast Asia, focusing on the increasingly important role of Malaysia as a strategically critical node in the regional information environment. It maps Malaysia’s emergence as a high-value target for FIMI operations, alongside the structural and technical vulnerabilities that leave it exposed. The paper concludes by proposing future directions, including establishing cooperation and datasharing frameworks at the ASEAN level, positioning Malaysia as a potential hub for cyberdiplomacy, and developing the informatics capacity needed to improve situational awareness.

Keywords

Malaysia, ASEAN, FIMI, Governance, Resilience