Malaysia only ASEAN nation to attain Tier 1 post-quantum cybersecurity readiness

Malaysia has become the sole ASEAN nation to attain Tier 1 status for post-quantum cryptography (PQC) migration readiness, according to the ASEAN Post-Quantum Cryptography Readiness 2026 report. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the recognition, highlighting the country's preparedness to confront future cybersecurity and technological challenges.

The government has ramped up efforts to bolster domestic technological capabilities and lessen reliance on foreign technology. Key initiatives include the creation of Pusat Pembangunan Keselamatan Siber dan Kriptologi Berhad and the implementation of the National Cryptography Policy (MyKriptografi). These initiatives aim to bolster expertise, research, innovation, and the production of locally trusted cybersecurity and cryptographic technology solutions.

Zahid also emphasized the government's endeavors to reinforce data sovereignty and the security of strategic technologies through the development of a Sovereign AI Cloud. The country adheres to a technology-agnostic principle, fostering strategic cooperation with various technology providers while prioritizing local capability development and minimizing the risks associated with dependence on foreign technology providers.

The National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) has crafted the Malaysia Cyber Security Strategy (MCSS) 2025-2030, a roadmap to enhance cybersecurity and resilience, including the cultivation of local expertise. The Cyber Security Act 2024 has established a legal framework to bolster cybersecurity governance and safeguard the National Critical Information Infrastructure (NCII).