KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) – Malaysia’s score for Robust Data Governance has risen to 75 under the GSMA Digital Nation Index, reflecting strong regulatory frameworks and the government’s firm commitment to protecting data, safeguarding privacy and building public trust, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
She said the score also underscores Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to create a secure and trusted digital ecosystem.
“It is against this backdrop that we turn to the GSMA Digital Nations ASEAN Report 2025. The report, presented today, identifies key areas for improvement, beginning with digital infrastructure.
“Our mobile network operators have laid a strong foundation for innovation, and it is vital that we build on this momentum,” she said in her speech at the Digital Nation Summit Kuala Lumpur (ASEAN Edition) 2025 here today.
Teo noted that the report also recognises Malaysia’s strengths in developing a skilled and adaptable workforce.
“Our people are our greatest asset, and in today’s fast-changing digital economy, they understand that learning never stops,” she added.
She emphasised that trust forms the cornerstone of any digital nation, and for ASEAN, building digital trust means ensuring strong data privacy, enhancing cybersecurity, protecting against emerging threats, and fostering an environment where businesses and citizens feel secure to participate.
“In ASEAN, the digital economy is currently valued at around US$300 billion and is projected to exceed US$1 trillion by 2030.
“ASEAN should harness the transformative power of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT), big data, blockchain and cloud computing towards developing innovative and inclusive, digital communities,” she said.
Highlighting the rise of cyber threats in the region, Teo said these are driven by increased connectivity, advanced technologies and ASEAN’s growing geopolitical significance.
“Effective cybersecurity requires close cooperation between governments, the private sector and international bodies, focusing on regional strategies and information-sharing mechanisms.
“Strengthening and updating legal frameworks is essential to combat cybercrime and respond to evolving threats,” she added.
Commenting on the summit, Teo noted that it closely aligns with ASEAN’s 2045 vision, which aims to build a resilient, innovative, dynamic, and people-centred community powered by digital transformation and regional integration.
“I believe this summit marks the beginning of deliberations on the region’s digital future, empowered by emerging technologies to enhance connectivity, drive innovation and secure technical systems.
“Let this summit herald a new chapter in building digital nations, where ASEAN leads with trust, thrives on innovation and grows together,” she said.
The Digital Nation Summit Kuala Lumpur (ASEAN Edition) 2025 is being held today and tomorrow under the theme Forging ASEAN’s Digital Future: Technology for Trust and Transformation, which highlights Malaysia’s role in ASEAN’s collective digital journey.
The two-day discussions will focus on trust, AI, industry innovation and cybersecurity shaping the region’s shared digital future.
— BERNAMA
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