Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil says cyber security is a core government priority as the digital economy now contributes 25.5% to GDP.
SHAH ALAM: Cyber security and data protection remain central to the government’s agenda as Malaysia positions itself as a regional leader in the field, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said.
The focus is essential given that the digital economy now contributes 25.5% to Malaysia’s gross domestic product.
Fahmi, who is also the MADANI Government spokesperson, highlighted the global importance of data as a critical asset.
“Cyber security is a critical issue not only for Malaysian companies but globally, because data is one of the most important assets, especially in the digital economy,” he told reporters after launching the Leonardo Regional Cyber Center.
He said Leonardo’s investment strengthens Malaysia-Italy bilateral ties and opens new opportunities for Malaysia to offer cyber security services regionally.
Malaysia is also keen to study Italy’s sovereign cloud model developed by Leonardo for data security and sovereignty.
“We will look at what they have achieved in Italy and identify aspects we can learn from, especially the challenges they faced, as guidance for establishing a sovereign cloud for Malaysia,” Fahmi said.
He expressed confidence that the centre, currently employing 40 staff, will expand rapidly and create more high-skilled jobs for Malaysians.
Leonardo Cyber & Security Solutions Division managing director Andrea Campora said Malaysia was chosen as a regional hub due to its political stability, strong digital vision and robust cyber security framework.
“I’ve read about your Cyber Security Act and found it very much advanced…with data protection regulation, and also MyDigital ID.
All of those indicate a trajectory of the country, which gives you much importance,” he said.
Campora added that operating costs in Malaysia are lower than in Europe.
The centre currently serves clients in Australia and is expected to expand further, with a focus on strengthening the local cyber security ecosystem.
It is part of Leonardo’s Global CyberSec Centre network based in Italy, supported by regional hubs in Brussels, Bristol and Riyadh.
Leonardo has been present in Malaysia for over four decades, contributing to the country’s defence and aerospace sectors.
