[COLUMNIST] Malaysia charts a secure course in the 5G sea: A model for the region?

The winds of change are whistling through the Straits of Malacca, carrying with them not just trade winds but also the promise of a hyper-connected future. Malaysia, a Southeast Asian nation long at the forefront of regional development, stands poised to harness the power of 5G technology. However, unlike some regional peers, Malaysia is not simply chasing the technological wave; it is building a secure harbour first.

This forward-thinking approach is embodied in two crucial decisions. The first is the recent passage of a comprehensive cybersecurity bill on the 27th of March* This legislation recognizes cybersecurity not as a technical hurdle but as a strategic imperative – the linchpin of national security, economic prosperity, and public trust in the digital age. The bill establishes a robust legal framework, empowering authorities to enforce stringent security measures and ensure the 5G rollout adheres to best practices in cyber hygiene and risk management.

The second, and equally crucial, decision is the adoption of a singular, streamlined model for the 5G network infrastructure. This stands in stark contrast to the dual-network approach favoured by some countries, particularly those considering technology providers like Huawei and ZTE. While such approaches may offer a veneer of choice, they come fraught with hidden costs.

The Shadow of Espionage Looms Large

Dual networks, incorporating technology providers facing heightened scrutiny, can introduce vulnerabilities into the very fabric of a nation's digital infrastructure. A 2022 report by foreign intelligence agencies warned of the dangers of relying on equipment from companies "beholden to foreign governments that engage in cyber espionage." These concerns are amplified by recent news articles. In February 2024, The Wall Street Journal reported on a classified US intelligence report alleging that Chinese hackers had exploited vulnerabilities in Huawei equipment to infiltrate a cloud-computing system used by multiple US companies. Huawei has vehemently denied these allegations.

The spectre of espionage, data breaches, and cyberattacks looms large. A 2023 study by Palo Alto Networks, a cybersecurity firm, found that Southeast Asia was the world's most targeted region for cyberattacks in 2022. A fragmented 5G network, especially one reliant on potentially compromised equipment, could create gaping holes in national security. The integrity, confidentiality, and availability of sensitive information – the lifeblood of the modern economy – could be placed at risk.

Malaysia: A Course Correction for Secure Development

Malaysia's current 5G rollout strategy represents a clear-eyed assessment of the digital landscape. By prioritizing a secure and unified network, the government is safeguarding its digital sovereignty and positioning itself as a leader in responsible technological development. This approach stands in stark contrast to the breakneck pursuit of technological advancement often seen in the region, where security considerations can be relegated to an afterthought.

The path Malaysia has chosen is not without its challenges. Balancing security with innovation requires a delicate touch. However, the potential rewards are immense. A robust and secure 5G network can fuel Malaysia's economic engine, fostering innovation and attracting foreign investment. It can empower citizens, bridging the digital divide and creating new opportunities for education, healthcare, and commerce.

As Malaysia sets sail on this digital voyage, the current 5G strategy presents a clear course for navigating the choppy waters of the 5G era. Doubling back for a dual-network approach would only introduce unnecessary delays and vulnerabilities. By staying the course and focusing on a secure, streamlined network, Malaysia can ensure a prosperous and secure digital future for its citizens. The world is watching, and Malaysia's bold approach has the potential to inspire a new era of secure technological development in Southeast Asia.

Ahmad Zaim Ahmad Tawfek was an assistant to Federal ministers in formulating economic, youth and foreign policies for Malaysia. ** The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of Astro AWANI.