by HIDAYATH HISHAM

MALAYSIA is set to establish a 5G cyber security testing centre as part of a new partnership between Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) and Cyber Security Malaysia (CSM), announced Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo (picture) today.

Speaking at a signing ceremony between the two entities, Gobind revealed that the collaboration aims to strengthen Malaysia’s digital landscape against cyber threats.

“This partnership will also see the establishment of a 5G cyber security testing centre, as well as the exchange of threat intelligence information between the two entities to further strengthen the nation’s cyber threat combat capabilities,” he said.

The initiative comes as Malaysia’s 5G network coverage has reached over 81.8% of populated areas.

Gobind emphasised the critical need for robust cyber security measures, citing recent attacks in the region.

“Cyber attacks are increasing in our region as the threat actors are continuously scanning and adapting very quickly to the latest developments around the globe,” he added.

The partnership will also focus on developing 5G security guidelines for the industry.

This partnership entails the development of 5G security guidelines, which will be utilised as the fundamental requirement for the industry, and it serves as a guiding principle for future 5G infrastructure baselines.

Gobind also addressed concerns about potential price increases due to the introduction of a second 5G network, and assured that measures are in place to maintain current pricing.

“We have taken steps to ensure that when the second network is created, the price that will be set will follow the existing prices,” he said.

The Digital Ministry is also planning to establish a data commission in the near future, with Gobind hoping to present relevant legislative amendments by early next year.

As of now, Malaysia’s 5G adoption rate stands at 43.6%, with over 14.8 million service subscriptions.

“Moving ahead, we are going to seek more meetings of this nature to learn what we need to do, and hopefully, working together, we will build Malaysia to become a nation that is secure in the cyber realm,” Gobind said.