TOKYO: Malaysia has presented its strategic approach to 5G deployment and emphasised its commitment to online security at the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting (APT-MM) 2025, held in Tokyo from 30 to 31 May.
Leading the Malaysian delegation for the first time, Communications Minister YB Fahmi Fadzil shared the country’s evolving experience in 5G implementation—from an initial single network model to the current dual network framework. He also highlighted Malaysia’s broader digital transformation initiatives, including the National Digital Network (JENDELA) infrastructure programme.
“This platform enables us to showcase the achievements of our digital initiatives and exchange valuable insights with regional counterparts,” said Fahmi. “Our journey in rolling out 5G and executing large-scale infrastructure projects such as JENDELA and Points of Presence (PoP) offers lessons that may benefit other nations.”
In addition to infrastructure discussions, Malaysia underscored the urgent need to strengthen online security measures across the region. Fahmi called on APT member countries to increase focus on cyber regulation and monitoring, specifically in addressing online gambling and cyber fraud.
“One of the proposals I raised was the need for senior officials to convene annually, potentially through dedicated workshops, to collectively address digital security challenges and explore shared solutions,” he added.
During the two-day summit, Fahmi held bilateral discussions with representatives from Japan, Indonesia, Fiji, China, Iran, Australia, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and the GSM Association (GSMA). These engagements facilitated knowledge sharing and reinforced regional partnerships.
Fahmi also pointed to Australia’s regulatory framework as a reference point, expressing Malaysia’s interest in conducting further studies—either through visits or virtual exchanges—to explore the applicability of similar legal approaches in Malaysia. He noted that agencies such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) would play a key role in evaluating these frameworks.
Malaysia reaffirmed its aspiration to remain on the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term, with Fahmi leveraging bilateral meetings to seek support from partner countries.
The APT-MM 2025 concluded with the launch of the ‘Tokyo Statement 2025’, which outlines six regional priorities: digital connectivity, digital innovation and entrepreneurship, trust and security, digital inclusion and capacity building, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.
Held under the theme “Harnessing Emerging Technologies for Sustainable, Inclusive and Equitable Digital Transformation in the Asia-Pacific”, the conference brought together 31 member nations and 19 affiliate entities, encompassing governments, regulators, and private sector stakeholders.
-Bernama
