Malaysia Achieves 75 in GSMA Digital Nation Index, Emphasizes ASEAN Digital Future

Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's score for Robust Data Governance has increased to 75 on the GSMA Digital Nation Index, demonstrating strong regulatory frameworks and the government's commitment to data protection, privacy safeguarding, and public trust-building, announced Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching. This achievement highlights Malaysia's efforts to establish a secure and trustworthy digital ecosystem.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the GSMA Digital Nations ASEAN Report 2025 was presented today, identifying key areas for improvement, particularly in digital infrastructure. Deputy Minister Teo emphasized the importance of building on the robust foundation laid by mobile network operators to foster continued innovation. The report also recognizes Malaysia's strength in nurturing a skilled and adaptable workforce, which is vital in today's rapidly evolving digital economy.

Teo stressed that trust is fundamental to any digital nation, and for ASEAN, building digital trust involves ensuring strong data privacy, enhancing cybersecurity, and creating an environment where businesses and citizens feel secure. She highlighted that ASEAN's digital economy, currently valued at approximately US$300 billion, is expected to surpass US$1 trillion by 2030, emphasizing the potential of digital technologies such as AI, IoT, big data, blockchain, and cloud computing to develop innovative and inclusive digital communities.

Addressing the rise of cyber threats driven by increased connectivity and advanced technologies, Teo called for effective cybersecurity strategies involving cooperation between governments, the private sector, and international bodies. She also underscored the need for strengthening and updating legal frameworks to combat cybercrime and address evolving threats.

The Digital Nation Summit Kuala Lumpur (ASEAN Edition) 2025, which aligns with ASEAN's 2045 vision, aims to build a resilient, innovative, and people-centered community powered by digital transformation. Teo expressed her belief that the summit marks the beginning of discussions on the region's digital future, driven by emerging technologies to enhance connectivity, drive innovation, and secure technical systems.

The summit, themed "Forging ASEAN's Digital Future: Technology for Trust and Transformation," underscores Malaysia's role in ASEAN's collective digital journey. The two-day event will focus on trust, AI, industry innovation, and cybersecurity, shaping the region's shared digital future.