Can Malaysia fulfil its big ambitions in the digital economy?
This was the question posed to Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo in an interview that was aired recently by a Singaporean news channel.
“Time is of the essence in this new world of technology, you need to move fast,” said Gobind in an interview with Channel News Asia.
“One of the complaints we had in the past was that there was too much bureaucracy, resulting in applications taking time. Unfortunately, when it takes too long, opportunities are lost, and investors look elsewhere.
“You must accept that every country is trying their best to attract investments as well, and Malaysia is ready for the challenges in this new digital era. I think we will succeed,” he added.
Malaysia has been attracting massive investments, amounting to billions of US dollars, from major technology companies. This, despite stiff competition from neighbouring countries that are also heavily involved in the tech race.
“Malaysia is strategically located. It’s a country that has an abundance of space, energy, water, resources, and we have very pro-business government policies.
“Malaysia is ready for the digital economy, and our government is going to take the necessary steps to ensure that not just our country, but our neighbours regionally are prepared to take full advantage of it (the digital economy).”
Gobind added that the series of investments was a “clear signal” of investors’ confidence in Malaysia and its government.
Private 5G network will accelerate digital innovation
Gobind visited the Petronas LNG Complex in Bintulu, Sarawak, yesterday. He said 5G was among the key technologies gaining importance in various sectors, including oil and gas.
“Increased use of 5G-enabled intelligent systems such as the industrial Internet of Things, drones, robotics, extended reality (XR), and artificial intelligence (AI), enhances operational efficiency and safety,” he said.
The deployment of the private 5G network at the complex is a collaboration between Petronas and Telekom Malaysia, and is supported by Digital Nasional Berhad.
Gobind added that ongoing efforts to accelerate 5G adoption among various enterprises were crucial for Malaysia’s digital transformation.
“I am happy to note that more and more Malaysian enterprises, from large multinational corporations to SMEs, are discovering how 5G can enable a multitude of digital solutions to improve productivity and increase operational efficiency and safety across critical production processes.
“We are seeing the development of private 5G networks and use cases undergoing proof-of-concept trials within the manufacturing, transportation, and logistics industries, among others. 5G is also powering smart city solutions in municipalities and townships such as Putrajaya,” he added.
Protecting end users against cyber threats
On Aug 6, Gobind launched the 2nd Cyber DSA 2024 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. He said the event serves as a valuable platform to promote cybersecurity among end users.
He added that creating and maintaining digital trust goes beyond technology and requires strong security measures, compliance with privacy laws, and a commitment to transparency and accountability.
“By focusing on these areas, organisations can foster a secure and trustworthy digital environment, bolstering user confidence and driving digital innovation,” he said.
