Malaysia only Asean country at highest tier for post-quantum cryptography readiness - Zahid

Malaysia has been recognized as the sole Southeast Asian nation to attain Tier 1 status for post-quantum cryptography (PQC) preparedness, according to the Asean Post-Quantum Cryptography Readiness 2026 report. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi revealed this achievement, highlighting the country's strides in reducing its reliance on foreign technology through the establishment of local expertise and capabilities.

These initiatives encompass the creation of the Cyber Security and Cryptology Development Centre Bhd (CSCDC) and the implementation of the National Cryptography Policy (MyKriptografi). These efforts aim to foster expertise, research, and innovation, as well as produce locally-trusted cybersecurity and cryptographic solutions to meet strategic security needs.

In response to a question from Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, Zahid explained that the government's initiatives extend to the development of a Sovereign AI Cloud, further bolstering data sovereignty and safeguarding strategic technologies. The government pursues a technology-agnostic approach, fostering strategic cooperation with various providers while emphasizing local capabilities and minimizing dependence on any single foreign vendor.

The government's National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) has also devised the Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy (MCSS) 2025-2030 to bolster national cybersecurity and resilience, including the enhancement of local expertise. The Cyber Security Act 2024 provides a legal foundation for robust cybersecurity governance and the protection of National Critical Information Infrastructure (NCII).