‘Cyber security more crucial than traditional security’

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has underscored the growing importance of cybersecurity, saying digital protection now carries greater significance than many traditional concepts of security in an increasingly technology-driven world.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of Bangladesh Ansar and VDP’s media cell, ‘Prantik Konthoshor’, at the force’s headquarters in Khilgaon on Wednesday, the minister said the nature of security has undergone a fundamental transformation in the modern era.

“The traditional concept of security has changed qualitatively in modern era. Now, keeping a big business firm’s computer free from hackers is more important than guarding its ‘Sindhuk’ and ensuring cybersecurity is more important than guarding a 1000-mile frontier,” he said.

The ceremony, organised under the theme ‘In the pulse of time, fulfilling aspirations’, was attended by State Minister for Road Transport and Highways Division and Railways Ministry Habibur Rashid as the special guest. Director General of Bangladesh Ansar and VDP Major General Abdul Motaleb Sazzad Mahmud presided over the event.

Highlighting the changing nature of modern threats, Swapan said warfare is no longer confined to conventional weapons and communication extends far beyond the exchange of voices.

“War is not just about weapons and communication is not just about exchanging people’s voices. The incident of reserve heist of the central bank has shown us that how security can be disrupted through digital manipulation,” he said.

The minister praised Bangladesh Ansar and VDP for adopting innovative and contemporary thinking to utilise its 60 lakh personnel for national development instead of remaining confined to conventional approaches.

He said the newly launched ‘Prantik Konthoshor’ digital platform would become an important component of the Bangladesh government’s information management strategy.

Swapan also commended the force’s leadership for recognising the transition from analogue to digital systems and taking the initiative to embrace digital leadership.

Describing technological advancement as a dynamic process, he said there is no room for stagnant knowledge or fixed mindsets in the digital age.

“In this technological reality, there is no scope to keep knowledge and psychology stable. We have to be dynamic in our thinking at every moment and be part of the ongoing upgrading system. Otherwise, the one who is modern today may become obsolete tomorrow,” he said.

The minister expressed his intention to establish ‘Prantik Konthoshor’ as a model for other government organisations to follow.

Senior officials of Bangladesh Ansar and VDP, among others, attended the inauguration ceremony.