Kuala Lumpur Airport Hit by Cyberattack, Hackers Demand $10M Ransom

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), one of Southeast Asia’s busiest airports, was hit by a major cyberattack over the weekend.

The incident, which paralyzed some operations, has raised significant concerns about the airport’s cybersecurity and the safety of travelers. Hackers behind the attack demanded a substantial ransom of US$10 million to restore normalcy.

Official Response

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the cyberattack, revealing that Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), the entity responsible for operating the country’s airports, had been severely affected.

Anwar emphasized his firm stance against paying the ransom, stating, “There is no way this country will be safe if its leaders and system allow us to bow to ultimatums by criminals and traitors, be it from inside or outside the country.”

Anwar’s swift and uncompromising response underscores the government’s commitment to combating cybercrime and avoiding the precedent of negotiating with hackers ...