Order in cybersecurity called for by president's demand
President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has raised concerns about the potential risks posed by artificial intelligence (AI) to national security, particularly the creation of fake videos and the threat of biometric identity theft. In a recent address, Tokayev emphasized the need to improve data management efficiency and strengthen cybersecurity.
Tokayev highlighted the urgency to address the vulnerability of information systems, citing over 40 significant data breaches this year, including a major leak of 16.3 million citizens' records. He proposed a pragmatic AI and digital transformation program with nine strategic pillars, encompassing economic modernization, healthcare AI, and digital government services.
To improve secure communications and data privacy, Tokayev proposed shifting away from foreign messaging platforms toward a secure domestic alternative, the Aitu messenger. This move aims to consolidate government communications and reduce data exposure risks.
The government is also working on transferring all communications containing personal data to the secure national messenger Aitu. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to protect critical infrastructure, enhance IT skills, and tighten governance, as outlined in Kazakhstan's dedicated AI and cybersecurity strategy adopted in 2024.
Moreover, a digital transformation group led by top officials is overseeing fast-tracked AI adoption alongside cybersecurity strengthening and IT modernization efforts across sectors. This group aims to foster innovation by supporting local AI startups and attracting investment to create a robust AI ecosystem within Kazakhstan.
In an effort to reinforce cybersecurity resilience, Tokayev announced AI education initiatives such as AI-Sana for students and teacher upskilling to build national AI expertise. The state is also responsible for the overall level of digital security in the country, and technical testing and certification according to security requirements falls under the State Technical Service, under the jurisdiction of the KNB.
However, the current cybersecurity situation is complicated by the blurriness of responsibilities and the fragmentation of functions. To address this, the government is working on streamlining the management vertical to ensure a swift response to cyber threats.
In summary, Kazakhstan’s cybersecurity improvements are shaped by a holistic approach that addresses legal, technical, educational, and infrastructural dimensions under presidential direction. The goal is to create a secure, sovereign digital platform and manage emerging AI threats effectively.
[1] "Kazakhstan's AI and Cybersecurity Strategy: A Comprehensive Approach" - Digital Transformation Kazakhstan [2] "President Tokayev Outlines National Digital Ecosystem Development Strategy" - Akorda [3] "Kazakhstan's Digital Transformation Program: A New Era of Government Services" - Liter.kz [4] "Streamlining Cybersecurity in Kazakhstan: A Digital Transformation Group's Initiative" - Ministry of Digital Development [5] "AI Education and Innovation: Kazakhstan's Approach to Building National AI Expertise" - AI-Sana
Tokayev's pragmatic AI and digital transformation program, encompassing economic modernization, healthcare AI, and digital government services, also focuses on strengthening cybersecurity to improve data management efficiency. To ensure secure communications and data privacy, he proposed shifting away from foreign messaging platforms and towards a secure domestic alternative, the Aitu messenger.
