Kuala lumpur: The government is currently examining the need to implement a Sovereign Cloud policy to ensure the security and sovereignty of the country's data, according to Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. He highlighted the significance of this move in light of the United States' CLOUD Act, which allows American authorities to access data stored by US tech companies, even if the data is physically located outside the country. This has prompted several other countries to consider similar policies to protect their national interests.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi emphasized the importance of evaluating the necessary security aspects of cloud computing to ensure that data, particularly highly sensitive and classified information, remains secure. While no decision has been made yet, the government is conducting a thorough review. Fahmi shared these insights after participating as a panelist at the 'Keynote Forum: Online Safety in the World of Artificial Intelligence (AI)', held in conjunction with the Youth Empowerment Fair.

Fahmi underscored the close link between the concept of sovereign cloud and national sovereignty, especially given that most digital platforms and social media are owned by 'Big Tech' companies that control vast amounts of user data. He pointed out that data ownership is a critical issue that requires further discussion, as all information entered on platforms like Facebook and TikTok belongs to these companies. Any policy planning must address current needs while also serving the long-term interests of the country.

Sovereign cloud refers to a framework where a country or community has complete control over its data, including where it is stored, how it is accessed, and who has authority over it. This concept is often seen as complementary to efforts aimed at protecting citizens' privacy and safeguarding strategic government information.

Meanwhile, Fahmi mentioned that the Safe Internet Campaign, led by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), has reached 2,611 schools nationwide, surpassing 25 per cent of its target of over 10,000 schools. This initiative is crucial for raising awareness among school-age children, particularly 'Generation Z' and 'Generation Alpha', about the advantages and risks of the digital world and the importance of safe internet usage.