Tokyo: Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) are intensifying their collaboration on cybersecurity measures in response to escalating cyber threats, particularly ransomware attacks, which have become a dominant concern for major corporations worldwide.
According to Philippines News Agency, Atsushi Katsuki, president and CEO of Asahi Group Holdings, Ltd., revealed at a recent news conference that the company had experienced a significant system disruption due to a ransomware attack. The attack, discovered on September 29, had previously breached the company's network, stealing critical passwords and administrative privileges. While the attack did not affect factory production, it severely impacted the order and shipment systems, forcing the company to rely on outdated methods like phone and fax orders for nearly two months. A group named 'Qilin' has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Asahi has refused to pay the ransom, focusing instead on restoring systems independently by February 2026.
Cyberattacks have become increasingly sophisticated, with ransomware leading the charge. This type of cyberattack encrypts essential data and demands money for restoration. The growing use of generative AI has further complicated matters by enabling phishing emails to appear more legitimate, making detection more challenging. Kenichi Sakurazawa from the Japan Cybercrime Control Center stressed the importance of having predefined protocols for reporting and addressing such damages.
Southeast Asia has emerged as a prime target for cybercriminals. With its rapidly developing digital economy, the region has seen an increase in ransomware and other cyberattacks. A report by Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. highlighted that the Asia-Pacific region, including Southeast Asia, experienced an average of 2,915 cyberattacks per week, significantly higher than the global average.
Several high-profile incidents have underscored the vulnerability of Southeast Asia to cyber threats. These include ransomware attacks on Vietnamese securities firm VNDIRECT and petroleum company PVOIL, as well as a major breach of Indonesia's national data center. More recently, Malaysia's Kuala Lumpur International Airport was targeted, with attackers demanding a ransom of USD 10 million.
In response to these threats, Japan and ASEAN have been working closely to enhance their cybersecurity capabilities. Initiatives such as the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Capacity Building Center in Bangkok and the ASEAN-Japan Cybersecurity Community Alliance have been pivotal in fostering information sharing and training government officials to combat cyber threats. Japan has also collaborated with Interpol and ASEAN defense authorities to conduct joint cybersecurity exercises, strengthening the region's ability to respond to attacks.
With over 15,000 Japanese companies operating in the ASEAN region, bolstering cybersecurity not only protects these businesses but also stabilizes regional supply chains. Through their cooperative efforts, Japan and ASEAN are not only enhancing their cyber defenses but also solidifying their diplomatic and economic ties.
