Malaysia mulls expediting quantum migration

DOHA: Malaysia is considering accelerating its quantum migration process to strengthen national data security amid emerging quantum computing threats.

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said he had asked the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to discuss joint efforts with the National Security Council, National Cyber Security Agency and telecommunications companies in this area.

He said the collaboration would involve establishing a research and development space to facilitate faster and more secure quantum migration.

Fahmi was commenting on technological innovations that could benefit Malaysia after visiting several exhibition booths at the Mobile World Congress Doha 2026 here on Sunday.

He said one of the innovations that caught his attention was quantum-safe communication.

"Quantum computers are expected to enter the market in the near future, posing major challenges to cryptography and encryption methods used to ensure our data remains secure.

"I foresee that quantum migration and quantum-safe communication will be among the key issues facing many countries in the years ahead."

Fahmi said his visit also provided an opportunity to explore various innovations, including the integration of artificial intelligence into smart city services and security systems.

Quantum migration refers to upgrading digital security systems with quantum-resistant encryption to shield data from future quantum cyber risks. — BERNAMA