PUTRAJAYA, July 16 — The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has officially assumed leadership of the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) operations, effective immediately, as part of intensified efforts to combat the growing threat of online financial fraud and scams.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced the matter today, saying that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has endorsed PDRM’s appointment to lead the NSRC, given the alarming rise in financial scams nationwide.
He said that previously, the NSRC operated as a collaborative effort between the National Financial Crime Prevention Centre (NFCC), PDRM, Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), without a clearly designated lead agency.
“On average, the NSRC’s 997 hotline receives nearly 500 calls daily, with total losses reaching RM1.6 billion according to the latest data from the National Social Council,” Saifuddin told the press after attending the Home Ministry’s (KDN) monthly assembly today.
Also in attendance were KDN secretary-general Datuk Awang Alik Jeman and Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay.
The minister added that for now, the NSRC’s operations will be managed by the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID), with 139 new positions set to be created to support the centre's expansion.
A new location for the NSRC will also be identified, replacing the current office housed at BNM in Kuala Lumpur.
“Coordination on staffing and logistics is currently underway between the KDN secretary-general and the Public Service Department,” he said.
PDRM will also review existing regulations and the role of financial institutions to strengthen the national response to online financial fraud.
“The public expects quick action, such as freezing fraudulent accounts before funds disappear, and if possible, returning stolen money. That is our main priority, which is why PDRM is stepping up to take full responsibility, in collaboration with all stakeholders,” Saifuddin said.
Established on October 14, 2022, the NSRC serves as a centralised platform to coordinate rapid response to online scams, enabling faster tracking of stolen funds and enforcement actions against cybercriminals.
— Bernama
