Nations must not fall victim to 'technology colonialism', says Fahmi
DOHA: Malaysia has called for greater respect for national sovereignty in shaping telecommunications policies and warned against “technology colonialism”.
Doha, Malaysia's Communications Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, cautioned against "technology colonialism" during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Doha 2026. He stressed the importance of nations maintaining their autonomy in shaping their telecommunications policies, warning against advanced countries dictating others' development and deployment of digital infrastructure.
Malaysia's experience with its 5G network rollout, which began with a single wholesale network model despite recommendations against it, illustrated the challenges of navigating geopolitical complexities. Fahmi highlighted the importance of interoperability as countries pursue their digital strategies, noting the unique dynamics of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) consensus-based approach.
He emphasized the need for greater dialogue and international cooperation to overcome challenges in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape, particularly as countries prepare for quantum migration and quantum-safe communications. Despite the hurdles, Fahmi expressed optimism that international collaboration could lead to innovative breakthroughs, even from nations not traditionally considered global technology leaders.
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