KUALA LUMPUR: The government plans to incorporate quantum technology into its structure with the aim of protecting Malaysia's digital security in the long run.
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari said the incorporation of quantum technology could also ensure military sustainability and a prosperous strategic security dimension in the country.
In his keynote address at the launch of the 2024 Siber Siaga (Cyber Readiness) event, Adly said quantum technology was seen to have higher capabilities in protecting the nation's digital security, compared to the existing technology.
He added that while quantum technology presents a complex narrative of good and bad news, its incorporation could transform Malaysia's economy, enhance national security and improve the lives of people.
"Meanwhile, the bad news (of the incorporation of quantum technology) is that it can delay progress, or worse, enable (other) nations to leverage quantum dominance as a strategic weapon against others.
"Among the potential risks is the traditional practice of 'store now, decrypt later' which poses a serious threat as encrypted information could be compromised once quantum decryption becomes available.
"Quantum technology has the potential to render current encryption methods obsolete and for that reason, a quantum-resistant encryption solution is urgently needed to protect our data.
"In this regard, the ministry is committed to embedding the principles and the technology itself into government practices to ensure military sustainability and a strong security strategy in the country," he said.
Present were Royal Malaysian Air Force deputy chief Lieutenant-General Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris and armed forces Defence Cyber and Electromagnetic Division director-general Rear Admiral Datuk Mohd Fadzli Kamal Mohd Mohaldin.
The inaugural event, organised by Aerosea Exhibitions Sdn Bhd and supported by CyberSecurity Malaysia and the armed forces through the Defence Cyber and Electromagnetic Division, is a three-day programme which ends tomorrow.
Quantum computing is a rapidly emerging technology that harnesses quantum mechanics to create new and advanced technologies as well as efficient computers.
The technology is believed to solve problems much faster than traditional technology as the system works differently from conventional computing algorithms.
Adly said collaboration between the government and private sectors was crucial to ensure that the development of quantum technologies is aligned with national security priorities and economic growth.
He added that to prepare for a quantum-enabled future and mitigate risks, relevant parties must also take conclusive steps to build understanding, develop skills, and establish connections.
"We should leverage real-world quantum experiments to cultivate a skilled quantum workforce, engage in forums and partnerships to exchange expertise and reduce industry-wide risks.
"We must also coordinate actively across agencies to ensure that investments and initiatives are complementary and adaptable to technological changes.
"Quantum technology offers transformative potential for secure communications and surveillance, but it may disrupt global security. Nations, particularly those in Asean, must develop robust strategies, resilient security frameworks and foster international cooperation to manage shifting power dynamics."