Empat bulan selepas pelancarannya, Kementerian Digital kini memulakan kerja sebenar: menunaikan janji Malaysia Digital 2030 (MD2030).

Pelan 5 tahun itu mensasarkan ekonomi digital menyumbang 30% kepada KDNK, mewujudkan 500,000 pekerjaan baharu, dan menjadikan 95% perkhidmatan kerajaan boleh diakses sepenuhnya atas talian menjelang 2030. Dan Ogos 2026 menandakan permulaan fasa pelaksanaan yang paling sibuk setakat ini.

Kementerian Digital Gerakkan RM5.9 Bilion Untuk Infrastruktur & Bakat

Di bawah Belanjawan 2026, kerajaan memperuntukkan sumber besar kepada kementerian: RM2 bilion untuk Awan AI Berdaulat, RM2 bilion untuk kabel bawah laut SALAM sepanjang 3,190km, RM780 juta untuk Fasa 2 JENDELA, dan RM5.9 bilion untuk R&D&C&I.

Tujuannya jelas: bina asas supaya Malaysia tidak hanya guna teknologi, tetapi cipta teknologi.

Bagi memastikan penyampaian lancar, Kementerian Digital telah melantik GovTech Malaysia sebagai penyelaras tunggal perkhidmatan awam digital. Platform “single window” menerusi aplikasi MyGov dan portal http://malaysia.gov.my akan dilancarkan secara berperingkat, dengan akses eksklusif melalui MyDigital ID.

Setakat Ogos, 7 juta rakyat telah mendaftar MyDigital ID. Kementerian menyasarkan 15 juta menjelang akhir tahun.

Menjawab persoalan mengenai keupayaan penyampaian, Kementerian Digital berkata mereka mengambil pendekatan realistik dan berfasa.

“MD2030 adalah pelan yang berani kerana kita mahu Malaysia bergerak lebih cepat. Kita sedar cabaran bakat dan infrastruktur wujud, sebab itu kita wujudkan GovTech Malaysia dan laburkan RM5.9 bilion untuk R&D dan latihan semula. Dengan kerjasama 7 agensi utama termasuk NAIO, MDEC dan CyberSecurity Malaysia, kita yakin boleh capai sasaran 2030 dan pada masa sama pastikan tiada rakyat ketinggalan,” kata jurucakap rasmi kementerian kepada New Malaysia Herald.

ASEAN AI Summit: Pentas Tunjuk Keupayaan Malaysia

Momentum itu telah diuji tahun lepas apabila Kementerian Digital menjadi tuan rumah ASEAN AI Summit 12-13 Ogos di Kuala Lumpur.

Acara itu menarik pelabur, syarikat teknologi dan penggubal dasar serantau. Tahun lepas sahaja, Malaysia merekodkan RM163.6 bilion pelaburan digital yang diluluskan — isyarat keyakinan pelabur terhadap hala tuju negara.

Selain itu, MYCentre4IR akan melancarkan operasi penuh ASEAN AI SAFE, rangkaian keselamatan AI serantau pertama seumpamanya.

“Ini peluang kita tunjuk Malaysia bukan sekadar destinasi data center, tetapi peneraju dasar AI yang bertanggungjawab di ASEAN,” kata sumber kementerian.

Dari Putrajaya ke Padawan: Fokus Inklusiviti

Sementara pelaburan besar tertumpu di bandar, Kementerian Digital turut menggerakkan agenda Rakyat Digital.

Pada Februari, projek rintis “AI-Powered Classroom” dilancarkan di SK St James Quop, Sarawak bersama Microsoft, Intel dan Dell. Ia menguji bagaimana AI boleh membantu guru di sekolah luar bandar dan menutup jurang digital.

Di peringkat komuniti, RM350 juta diperuntukkan untuk memperkasakan 1,099 pusat Nadi sebagai hab latihan dan keusahawanan. Kementerian juga sedang membangunkan Indeks Keterangkuman Digital Malaysia (MyIKD) bersama UNDP untuk mengukur dan menangani jurang akses.

Data MDEC menunjukkan masih ada 23% isi rumah B40 tanpa internet tetap. Justeru JENDELA 2 akan menyasarkan 2,700 lokasi luar bandar tambahan menjelang 2027.

“Kita mahu pastikan budak di Quop ada peluang sama seperti budak di Cyberjaya. Itu teras Rakyat Digital,” kata pegawai kementerian yang terlibat.

Apa Seterusnya: Daripada Dasar Kepada Impak

Dengan tujuh tonggak MD2030, fokus Kementerian Digital untuk baki 2026 ialah 3 perkara:
1.⁠ ⁠Lancarkan GovTech: Pastikan urusan kerajaan 5 minit siap di telefon
2.⁠ ⁠Hasilkan Bakat: Percepat program upskilling AI untuk capai 500,000 pekerjaan
3.⁠ ⁠Jaga Kepercayaan: Operasikan Suruhanjaya Data Nasional dan Strategi Keselamatan 2026-2030

Visi MD2030 ialah menjadikan Malaysia “negara AI progresif” di mana data jadi aset strategik dan rakyat berkembang bersama teknologi.

Bagi Kementerian Digital, 2026 bukan tahun untuk umum dasar baharu. Ia tahun untuk membuktikan dasar itu berfungsi — di pejabat kerajaan, di bilik darjah, dan di kampung. – NMH

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KUALA LUMPUR, 15 June 2025 – In a surprising but meaningful celebration of National Journalists’ Day 2025, Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia (YIM) brought together media professionals and its Board of Trustees for a “Mission Impossible” movie night at TGV Pavilion Bukit Jalil. But the theme was more than cinematic flair — it mirrored the agency’s real-world mission: making the seemingly impossible, possible.

Under the stewardship of its dynamic Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sharmila Mohamed Salleh, YIM, an agency under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), is not just producing success stories — it is shaping the innovation ecosystem of tomorrow. From commercialising final-year student projects to revitalising Malaysia’s marine biodiversity, YIM is reimagining the power of grassroots innovation.

From Prototype to Marketplace: A Road Less Travelled

For many students and individual inventors, promising ideas often stall at the prototype stage, buried beneath academic archives or lost due to lack of funding. Recognising this gap, YIM has stepped in as a key player in converting dormant potential into dynamic, market-ready solutions.

Through programmes such as the MyIS Apprentice and MyIS Akar Umbi / MaGRIs initiatives, YIM offers development grants, technical mentorship, and structured guidance to help innovators move from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 to TRL 6 — bridging the critical chasm between prototyping and pre-commercialisation.

“Many students develop incredible final-year projects that are left behind after graduation,” Dr. Sharmila explained during the event. “Our goal is to take those ideas, which often solve real-world problems, and give them a pathway to reach the market. We don’t just fund; we verify, test, and guide them to maturity.”

A case in point is the mushroom cultivation project in Kelantan. What appeared to be a simple agricultural innovation turned into a thriving ecosystem, generating RM3.6 million in returns from an initial RM300,000 investment—and more importantly, creating jobs for 40 local individuals. “That’s just one project. We’ve successfully funded more than 220 across the country,” added Dr. Sharmila.

The Golden Age of Innovation: Preparing for an Aging Nation

Malaysia’s population is rapidly aging, and by 2050, an estimated 9 million citizens will be above 60. This demographic shift poses immense social and economic challenges — but also an opportunity for innovation.

YIM is currently developing the “Golden STI” initiative, aimed at creating technological solutions tailored for the elderly. These range from assistive devices and digital platforms to innovations that enable seniors to stay economically active.

“Many elderly Malaysians are still healthy and capable of contributing, but they need the right tools and support systems. Through partnerships with local startups, we’re exploring tech that will help them live not just longer, but better lives,” said Dr. Sharmila.

She emphasised that YIM is not just chasing inventions; it’s engineering impact—social, environmental, and economic.

Mission Langkawi: Saving the Gamat Emas

Beyond technology and commercialisation, YIM’s work also touches on environmental sustainability. One of its latest projects involves the revival of the endangered golden sea cucumber, or gamat emas, a species native to Malaysian waters and integral to local medicinal and wellness traditions.

Working in collaboration with the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), the Malaysian Fisheries Development Authority (LKIM), and academic institutions such as Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), YIM successfully reintroduced 20 adult and 200 juvenile gamat emas into Langkawi’s marine ecosystem.

“Gamat emas is a national treasure, both biologically and culturally. This project not only contributes to biodiversity but also has economic potential through collagen-based product development,” Dr. Sharmila noted.

The initiative is a model for how science, tradition, and commerce can intersect under a single innovation umbrella.

YIM Unlocks Potential Where It’s Often Overlooked

YIM Trustee Ts. Noor Azmi Mat Said echoed the importance of grassroots innovation during the movie night gathering. “Often, innovators are only thinking about their immediate community. But with the structure and support YIM provides, these solutions can scale and be applied across different regions and demographics,” he said.

He stressed that grassroots innovation is not about rudimentary tools or isolated impact. It’s about solving real problems in real communities—cost-effectively and sustainably.

“Through programmes like MyIS Apprentice, we’re giving students and grassroots inventors not just a stage, but a springboard,” Noor Azmi added.

MyIS Apprentice: Where Young Ideas Become National Assets

The MyIS Apprentice programme is a particularly promising initiative. Aimed at university students, it encourages them to submit their final-year projects with the prospect of receiving up to RM50,000 in innovation development grants. Participation is free, and shortlisted applicants will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges for funding and further development.

“It’s a national call to action for young minds. If you’re sitting on a great idea, don’t let it gather dust—let us help you take it to the next level,” Dr. Sharmila urged.

The submission window, originally set between 1 May and 31 May 2025, has now been extended to 15 June, giving more students a chance to take part.

A Culture of Belief: Celebrating Journalists and Innovators

The Mission Impossible movie night was more than a social event—it was a strategic gesture of appreciation to the media and trustees who have played a pivotal role in YIM’s journey. It symbolised the belief that even the most improbable missions can succeed with the right team, vision, and tools.

“Just like in the movie, what we do may seem like Mission Impossible at times. But we’ve shown, project after project, that the impossible is simply something that hasn’t been done yet,” said Dr. Sharmila with a smile.

As YIM continues to champion innovation from the bottom up—be it from the hands of a student, a local entrepreneur, or a traditional fisherman—the agency reinforces its core message: when we believe in ideas and empower the people behind them, even the impossible becomes possible. – NMH

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Kuala Lumpur, 09 May 2025 – In a significant move to enhance Malaysia’s digital upskilling agenda, GKK Consultants Sdn Bhd (GKK Malaysia) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation (IITMPTF). This collaboration marks the first time a Malaysian company has joined forces with an Indian tech innovation hub, aiming to address the country’s growing demand for advanced digital skills.

Bridging the Digital Skills Gap

The partnership is set to support Malaysia’s National Artificial Intelligence Office (NAIO) and other digital initiatives by offering certified technology education programs. These programs will focus on emerging technological areas such as Artificial Intelligence, semiconductor design, green energy, and Industry 5.0 applications.

Dr. Gajendra Balasingham, Managing Director of GKK Malaysia, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “The digital economy contributed 23.5 percent to Malaysia’s GDP in 2023, amounting to RM427.7 billion. However, companies are still struggling to find suitable employees for roles in cloud computing, AI, and data analytics. This partnership will empower underserved communities and develop a future-ready workforce for Malaysia’s tech sector.”

Comprehensive Training Programs

The first program under this partnership will involve 550 final-year students at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). In collaboration with IITMPTF and GKK Malaysia’s ecosystem partners, both lecturers and students will receive comprehensive training in Data Analytics, Java Full Stack Programming, Cyber Security, and AWS Cloud Practitioner. This initiative aims to equip Malaysian talent with globally recognized, industry-relevant skills.

Mr. Balamurali Shankar, Chief Knowledge Officer of IITMPTF, remarked, “This partnership will bridge the skill gap by preparing more tech professionals in cutting-edge technologies, especially in Cybersecurity, AI, and Machine Learning. Students will gain invaluable hands-on experience and real-world insights, enhancing their employability both in Malaysia and internationally.”

Strategic Alignment with National Goals

The partnership aligns with Malaysia Digital’s focus on AI governance and NAIO’s strategic priorities, ensuring the workforce remains competitive in the Industry 5.0 era. His Excellency Mr. B.N. Reddy, India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, expressed his congratulations: “The Indian High Commission is delighted to learn that GKK Malaysia has established a framework to promote advanced courses in Malaysia through IITMPTF. IITMPTF is a renowned innovation hub in India, and its advanced courses will enhance the competitive advantage of many Malaysian companies.”

Addressing Digital Industry Challenges

A recent survey conducted by Randstad Malaysia and published in its ‘2025 Job Market Outlook & Salary Guide’ indicates that 59 percent of Malaysian companies want to increase their headcount by an average of 10 to 15 percent this year. However, many are facing challenges in sourcing skilled professionals, particularly in AI, cybersecurity, and software development.

Dr. Gajendra concluded, “The demand for such professionals has surged, but the nation’s workforce is still lacking the necessary expertise to meet immediate industry standards. This partnership will play a crucial role in addressing these challenges and ensuring Malaysia’s workforce is equipped with the skills needed for the future.”

This partnership between GKK Malaysia and IITMPTF represents a significant step forward in Malaysia’s digital upskilling agenda, promising to equip the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. – NMH

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Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia (YIM) serves as a catalyst in Malaysia’s social innovation ecosystem by developing local technology and innovative solutions that address community needs. The foundation collaborates strategically with ministries, agencies, industries, communities, and civil society to ensure that innovations are competitive and impactful.

According to Dr Sharmila Mohamed Salleh, YIM’s Chief Executive Officer, the Foundtion supports the government’s efforts to develop Malaysia into a progressive, sustainable, and high-tech nation, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to ensure inclusive development.

Support for Innovators

Over the past three years, YIM has supported numerous innovators through initiatives such as the MyIS Social Innovation Grassroots Program, MyIS Community Program, and the Inclusive SME Ecosystem (I-SEE) Program. These initiatives provide grants, training, and collaboration opportunities to help innovators produce market-competitive solutions. For example, the MyIS Social Innovation Grassroots Program has supported 40 grant recipients from 2021 to 2024.

Types of Assistance Provided By YIM

YIM offers various forms of assistance to encourage community innovation, including financial grants, training, mentorship, and market access. The foundation provides grants such as the MyIS Community Grant, MyIS Grassroots Innovation Grant (MaGRIs), and the Inclusive SME Ecosystem (I-SEE) Grant, with funding amounts ranging from RM50,000 to RM300,000. These grants support research and development, commercialization, and the expansion of market reach.

Goals and Achievements

YIM’s primary goal is to empower social innovation and increase Malaysia’s global competitiveness. The foundation aims to develop at least 12 innovative solutions per state within five years, focusing on local needs and utilizing local technology. These solutions are intended to provide direct benefits to the community, such as job creation and improved living standards. YIM’s efforts are aligned with national strategies such as the 10-10 MySTIE Framework and the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (DSTIN 2021-2030).

Plans for the Future

This year, YIM plans to expand its support programs for innovators by offering more comprehensive training and financing assistance. The foundation will strengthen collaborations with the private sector and government agencies to facilitate market access and commercialisation opportunities. YIM will also focus on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and biotechnology through workshops and training programs. Additionally, YIM aims to establish more Makerspaces (RDC) to provide local communities with access to technology and innovation development opportunities.

International Collaborations and Achievements

YIM’s relationship with international markets, particularly India, has been significant. Through the ASEAN India Grassroots Innovation Forum, YIM collaborates with grassroots innovators to address social challenges. The foundation’s international contributions have been recognized by the United Nations, and YIM has received several awards, including the Social Innovation Award and recognition from the Global Innovation Management Institute (GIMI).

Inspiring the Younger Generation

To inspire interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields among the younger generation, YIM implements programs such as the Malaysia Techlympics Program. This initiative allows students to enhance their technical skills through STEM challenges and competitions. YIM also organizes innovation competitions and provides STEM equipment to schools, aiming to attract more students to science and technology fields.

Worth noting is that YIM’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and addressing social challenges is paving the way for a progressive and sustainable Malaysia. By empowering communities, supporting innovators, and inspiring the younger generation, YIM is ensuring that innovation remains at the heart of Malaysia’s development. – NMH

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KUALA LUMPUR – The Women in Tech (WIT) APAC Summit 2024 concluded with a glittering Awards Gala Dinner, celebrating extraordinary women and organisations driving progress in the technology sector. The event, held at the JW Marriott Kuala Lumpur, honored individuals and initiatives that have significantly shaped the tech landscape across Asia-Pacific.

As one of the region’s most prominent events for women in technology, the summit brought together professionals, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from across industries to recognize the pioneers of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Recognising Excellence Across Nine Categories

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of winners across nine categories, each acknowledging exceptional contributions to the field of technology:

• Aspiring Teen Award: Yam Yiu Wong, Student at Yan Chai Hospital Lan Chi Pat Memorial Secondary School.
• Best Ally Award: Akio Tanaka, Founder & General Partner, IVS/ Headline Asia.
• Global Leadership Award: Melissa Proxenos, Head of Technology, Debtrak UK Ltd.
• Greentech Startup Award: Chithra Lekha Vikraman Nair, CEO & Founder, Karotinam Innovation Pvt Ltd.
• Lifetime Achievement Award (Powered by AFFIN): Tserenjagzan Gansukh, Director of IT Department, Premium Nexus.
• Most Disruptive Award (Powered by Amazon): Momoko Fukunaga, CEO, Cosmobloom Inc..
• Most Impactful Initiative Award (Powered by CelcomDigi): Dr. Saira Osama, Founder & CEO, Cerebrocure Technologies Pvt Ltd.
• Tech Diplomacy Award: Jean Linis-Dinco, Technology & Cyber Policy, Manushya Foundation.
• Woman in Web3 Award (Powered by The Sandbox): Selvarany Rasiah, Founder & CEO, KLapital DX (KLDX).

These categories were designed to spotlight a wide range of achievements, from those just beginning their tech journey to industry veterans who have paved the way for others.

Aspiring Teen

Yam Yiu Wong is a talented student from Yan Chai Hospital Lan Chi Pat Memorial Secondary School in Hong Kong, actively engaged in technology and innovation. She has received gold awards at the Korea-International Youth Olympiad 2024 and bronze awards at IPITEx, Thailand Inventors’ Day 2023 for her innovative device that combines microalgae and ambient light to improve air quality and sleep quality.

As the Hong Kong Champion in the Regional (Greater Bay Area) A.I. Autonomous Formula Car Racing Competition, Yam Yiu demonstrated her proficiency in deep learning and problem-solving skills. Additionally, as Vice President of the School Innovation and Technology Club, she led her team to secure over 50 awards in various invention competitions within a single academic year.

Beyond her academic achievements, Yam Yiu actively mentors younger students, encouraging them to explore interests in technology and innovation.

WIT – Global Stage for APAC Winners

The winners of the WIT APAC Awards will automatically progress to the prestigious WIT Global Awards, where they will compete with their peers from other regions. The WIT Global Awards are widely regarded as one of the most influential platforms for recognizing women’s contributions to technology on an international scale, providing a stage for the APAC winners to showcase their innovations to a global audience.

A Platform for Change and Collaboration

This year’s WIT APAC Summit also fostered valuable discussions and collaboration on issues shaping the future of technology. The summit featured a unique Oxford-style debate and in-depth sessions focusing on critical topics such as sustainability, inclusivity, and global innovation. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, government representatives, and educators joined forces to share insights and create actionable solutions for the challenges faced by the technology sector.

About Women in Tech®

Women in Tech® is a global movement committed to empowering women with leadership and tech skills. With chapters across the world, Women in Tech® advocates for diversity and addresses gender inequality in technology. Through platforms like the WIT APAC Summit, the organization offers a unique space for women and their allies to connect, collaborate, and lead impactful change in the digital era. – NMH

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KUALA LUMPUR — In a call for greater inclusivity in the tech industry, Gobind Singh Deo, Malaysia’s Minister of Digital, emphasised the need for women to play a more prominent role in shaping the country’s digital future during his keynote address at the Women in Tech (WIT) APAC Summit and Awards.

“As we stand on the precipice of this ever-evolving digital era, it is extremely important that we recognise and amplify the contributions of women in the tech space,” said Gobind Singh. He pointed to the ongoing gender gap in senior leadership roles in the technology sector, citing the World Economic Forum Global Gender Gap Report 2024, which showed a decline in women’s representation in top positions across industries.

The Minister also highlighted Malaysia’s progress in digital education, referencing initiatives such as AI Untuk Rakyat, which saw over 52% of female participation among its 1.3 million registrants. “This is encouraging, but more must be done to ensure women can reach the highest echelons of the tech industry,” he said.

His remarks set the tone for the third edition of the Women in Tech APAC Summit and Awards, which opened on Tuesday at the Central Bank of Malaysia. The two-day event brings together leaders and innovators from across the region to celebrate the achievements of women in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and discuss strategies for breaking down barriers in the tech ecosystem.

Women in Tech Malaysia’s Growing Influence

As the APAC regional HQ for the global Women in Tech movement, Malaysia is playing a critical role in expanding opportunities for women in STEAM fields. Since its establishment in 2022, Women in Tech Malaysia has led numerous initiatives aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the tech sector.

During her keynote speech, Yuki Aizawa, APAC Director and Country Director for Women in Tech Malaysia, spoke about the organization’s rapid growth across Asia-Pacific. “In just two years, we have expanded our reach with new chapters in Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and the Philippines, with more to come in early 2025,” said Aizawa.

She also highlighted the launch of a new community platform, designed to connect women across 61 countries, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and a talent hub. “Our goal is to empower 5 million women by 2030, and this platform will be key in helping us achieve that,” Aizawa added.

A Call for Action and Collaboration

In his speech, Gobind Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to creating an inclusive digital ecosystem. He announced that Women in Tech Malaysia would sign a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with MDEC to further strengthen long-term collaborations in mentoring, talent development, and funding opportunities for women in tech.

“As technology advances, we must ensure that no one is left behind, especially women,” said Gobind Singh. He called for greater leadership training and mentorship programs to help women ascend to senior positions in the tech sector, while also encouraging young girls to pursue education in fields like AI and digital transformation.

The Minister also pointed to successful initiatives like the #GirlsInICT campaign, which encourages young women to pursue careers in STEM. He urged companies and organizations to create environments that are more inclusive and flexible to retain women in the workforce.

A Platform for Change

The Women in Tech APAC Summit 2024 is a platform for celebrating the achievements of women in STEAM while fostering collaboration across the region. This year’s event introduces new elements such as an Oxford-style debate and a fireside chat with HE Katsuhiko Takahashi, Japan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, discussing women’s roles in driving economic growth at the upcoming Osaka World Expo.

The summit also offers sessions like Up Close and Personal: Work x Life Integration with Founder Couples, which explores the challenges and successes faced by women entrepreneurs in balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

The Awards Night: Recognising Excellence

The summit will reach its highlight tonight with the WIT APAC Awards Gala Dinner, where outstanding women and initiatives will be honored for their contributions to STEAM. Winners from the APAC region will go on to compete in the WIT Global Awards in Paris, further showcasing the talent and innovation driving women in technology across the globe.

This year’s awards night promises to be a celebration of the remarkable women who are not only breaking stereotypes but also inspiring future generations to take part in the digital revolution. As the APAC Awards Gala draws near, anticipation builds for what promises to be a night of inspiration and empowerment.

A Brighter Future for Women in Tech

With plans to expand into Penang, Sabah, and Sarawak, Women in Tech Malaysia is poised to grow its influence across Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region in 2025. New initiatives like the Girls-in-STEM and FoundHER Support Series are set to provide young women and female entrepreneurs with the support, mentorship, and funding they need to succeed.

As the WIT APAC Summit draws to a close, one thing is clear: the future of technology is diverse, inclusive, and will be powered by women. With the support of government leaders, industry stakeholders, and organizations like Women in Tech, the road ahead is bright for women in STEAM across Malaysia and APAC. – NMH

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KUALA LUMPUR — The Malaysia Mobile Technology Association (MMTA), which represents the majority of SMS service providers, is spearheading a critical awareness exercise towards the potential SMS disruption on 01 Sept 2024.

The Association has urged the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to extend an exemption granted to certain entities from a ban on sending web addresses, also known as URLs, via SMS.

The Malaysia Mobile Technology Association (MMTA) said the ban has been in force since May 2023 in the MCMC’s attempt to curb scams via text message.

“These deceptive schemes are carried out through many channels; including through SMS and instant messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, iMessage on Apple devices, and Rich Communication Services (RCS) on Google devices, including 5G Messaging and Advanced Messaging,” MMTA said in a statement.

SMS Disruption Due to Scams

In recent years, scams have predominantly been transmitted via SIM cards in the form of Person-to-Person (P2P) messages. However, the Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC) took decisive action by directing service providers to filter and block “Prohibited Contents” in P2P SMS messages starting May 2023. This prohibition includes harmful Uniform Resource Locator (URL), call-back numbers, and requests for sensitive information—common tactics used in fraudulent schemes.

Previously, an exemption allowed Enterprise SMS (Application-to-Peer or A2P) messages from legitimate entities like government agencies, financial institutions, and corporations to bypass these restrictions, subject to their brand name and short code being approved by MCMC. However, MCMC has recently announced that as of 01 Sept 2024, this exemption will be revoked. Service providers will now be required to block Prohibited Content in all Enterprise SMS (A2P) messages entirely.

Concerns Over Content Restrictions

MMTA has expressed concerns about upcoming Content Prohibition by MCMC, which will prohibit URLs, call-back numbers, and requests for information would drastically disrupt legitimate business communications to member of the public. MMTA argues that while consumer protection is crucial, these sweeping restrictions could severely disrupt legitimate business communications and indirectly leading to economic uncertainty.

Many organisations, including government agencies, financial institutions, and mobile operators, rely heavily on URLs within SMS to provide essential services and information. Examples of commonly URLs in SMS messages are:

•           Delivery of e-statements & e-invoices

•           Mission critical / monitoring system status and alerts

•           Confirmation of client appointments/registration/changes

•           Real-time logistic tracking for deliveries

•           Survey for after-sales and service review

•           Password reset links / Authentications

•           Confirmation of Campaign/initiative/Terms & Conditions & many more

Feedback from one of the many end-users, Mr. Alex Guidice from Apple, Inc. has encapsulated the key concerns for the parties effected by this restrictions. Mr. Alex shared that Apple uses URLs within SMS globally; including Malaysia and essential for delivering a superior customer experience, providing clear and concise information, and ensuring timely support.

Mr. Alex has also personally written to MCMC and appealed for MCMC to reconsider this prohibition which will block all SMS containing URL links (regardless if its legitimate). He stressed that this prohibition will create a massive disruption towards the existing SMS eco-system and affecting both the businesses and general public.

Decline in SMS Scams and Shift to New Platforms

Recent data shows that these controls have significantly reduced SMS scams, with complaints dropping from 4,121 in 2019 to 498 in 2023, a 63% decrease. Complaints about SMS scams fell sharply from 58 in Q1 2023 to just 9 in Q4 2023.

However, scammers are now moving to instant messaging platforms like WhatsApp, iMessage, voice calls, and social media. These platforms are being used for phishing and malware attacks, causing considerable financial losses to members of the public. Scammers are also using fake Base Transceiver Stations (BTS); a device  which is able to send SMS illegally by “hacking” legitimate mobile operator’s network. The fake BTS able to target handsets nearby and send scam messages containing malicious URL to solicit personal/banking information.

The MMTA’s  proactive stance aims to enhance the security and integrity of SMS communications across Malaysia, reinforcing its commitment to combating the evolving threat of digital scams, but strongly believes that blocking “Prohibited Contents” within SMS unlikely to impair scammers whom are now using other digital channels such as fake BTS, instant messaging, emails, social media, fake QR Codes and etc.

MMTA aims to educate the public on how to identify and avoid messaging scams, urging vigilance towards unsolicited messages. Scammers often impersonate legitimate entities to steal personal information. Always verify the source of any message before responding and never share sensitive details like your NRIC, bank/credit card information, or home address in response to unsolicited requests.

If you suspect a scam, report it to the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) hotline at 997 or contact the Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) via WhatsApp at 013-2111222.

Call for a Balanced Approach and Sustainable Solutions

The MMTA has proposed alternative solutions to the MCMC, including a phased enforcement approach and the development of advanced filtering solutions to differentiate between legitimate and harmful content. The Association has also requested a delay in the directive’s implementation to give the industry adequate time to deploy and adapt.

Shawn Ng, President of MMTA, stated, “We hope the MCMC will collaborate with industry stakeholders to find a balanced approach that protects consumers while allowing businesses to continue delivering essential services. Our goal is to ensure that efforts to combat scams do not impede the growth and innovation of Malaysia’s mobile messaging sector, which contributes over RM500 million annually to the Malaysia Madani Economy.”

Appeal for Extension of Exemption

The MMTA respectfully requests that MCMC extend the exemption for Prohibited Content in A2P SMS beyond the 01 September 2024 deadline. The Association believes a balanced approach can protect consumers from scams while maintaining the effectiveness of SMS as a vital communication tool. – NMH

Also read:

SPM Absentees: What The 10,000 Students Are Not Telling You

Netizenship And The Emotional Contagion

The post SMS Disruption – MMTA Concerned, Spearheads Critical Awareness Alert first appeared on NMH.

During the recent Sasana Simposium 2024, the Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) collaborated to conduct a seminar titled Empowering Youth in the Digital Payment Landscape: Decoding Mule Account.

Representing PDRM was ASP Muhamad Aizat bin Shukor from Bukit Aman’s Commercial Crime Division intelligence section. Vijayadurai a/l Singgatore represented BNM.

According to ASP Muhamad Aizat, the number of mule accounts had increased from 17,000 cases in 2019 to about 34,000 cases in 2023. This figure may exceed further in 2024, with 19,000 cases recorded from January to May 2024.

PDRM Explains On Mule Accounts

ASP Muhamad Aizat explained that mule accounts are accounts that scammers or other unscrupulous individuals have manipulated to commit their nefarious activities. The manipulation can be as simple as asking a person to borrow their account to buy goods or receive money or as complex as taking over an unwitting person’s banking or eWallet accounts. They would use these accounts to commit fraudulent transactions or layer and integrate stolen funds into the financial system.

He reminded attendees that individuals who unwittingly allowed others to use their accounts are liable for the actions of these scammers. They could find themselves prosecuted by the law under Section 424 of the Penal Code, where they could land in jail for five years.

Additionally, these individuals may find banks closing their accounts and barring them from opening accounts in the future. Even worse, many companies have resorted to checking with the police before hiring a new employee.

Despite the dark outlook, he advised individuals who had gotten tricked by these individuals to report their unwitting participation to the police. The move would help the police to investigate these incidents.

Scam Red Flags

On other matters, he advised the public to be wary of scam red flags. Amongst others, he pointed out that scammers often make too-good-to-be-true offers. Most recently, some scammers are ‘offering’ RM10 durian king offers.  

When asked if it is advisable to engage in small talk with Macau scam calls, he discouraged the public from engaging them as some scammers would have gleaned the caller’s information from social media accounts, which would make it easy for them to crack the victims, whereas the victims do not know them. Additionally, he advised not to accept these calls if possible, as the scammers may record the voice to replicate it using AI.

On the safety of buying from online sales platforms, he advises the public to avoid accepting offers from these merchants to contact the merchants off-platform, either via WhatsApp or SMS, as these online platforms monitor these on-platform chats to prevent undetected scammers from misusing the platform.

He also urged participants to share with their friends and families to help combat the scourge. – NMH

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The post PDRM Advises Public To Be On Alert Mode For Mule Account Trap first appeared on NMH.

Malaysia’s semiconductor industry is considered one of the fastest-growing sectors in the world. The country is already a hub for the semiconductor supply chain, supplying key components to the industry over the past few years.

Malaysia has also witnessed continued investments in the semiconductor industry. Some of the major players manufacturing chips and other semiconductor components in the country include Intel, AMD, Broadcom, Infineon, Bosch, GlobalFoundries and many more.

The country currently controls 13% of the global market for packaging, assembly, and testing services for semiconductors. It is also the sixth-largest source of semiconductor exports in the world. This makes the country an ideal supplier in the semiconductor supply chain, with the US being a major trade partner in the industry too.

According to a report by Nikkei Asia, chip companies Jabil, Micron, Bosch, Western Digital, and Lam Research are all expanding their manufacturing footprints in the area around Penang in Malaysia, stretching from Kulim in the north to the Batu Kawan Industrial Park in the south. DHL Express is constructing several logistics centers in the area, after launching direct cargo flights five days a week between Penang and Hong Kong, a chip-trading hub close to mainland China, in mid-2021.

Are the sanctions actually making a difference to China?

Semiconductor industry in Malaysia

Given the development of the chip industry in Malaysia, China may now see opportunities to rely on the country not only to solve its supply chain problems but also as a solution to the sanctions that have been imposed on it.

Last year, the US government enforced chip sanctions on China, intending to slow down the country’s capabilities in developing AI. However, there were some loopholes in the sanctions that allowed Chinese firms to keep buying and building the chips used to train some of the world’s most advanced AI algorithms.

The US only realized the loopholes when companies like Huawei were able to develop a 5G phone despite sanctions. Companies like Nvidia were also still doing business with China but with a different version of chips, which were developed based on the limits of the sanctions. For example, the A800 and H800 chips were heavily sourced by Tencent and Alibaba in China.

Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, who was in Malaysia recently, reaffirmed that China remains an important market for the company. Huang explained the situation, saying, ‘The US has determined to regulate our technology, the highest end of our technology, and limit its access to China. So, the regulations specify the maximum performance we can ship to China, and we will follow the regulations precisely – and very explicitly do so.” He added that Nvidia is currently developing new chips specifically for the Chinese market.

Huang also confirmed that Malaysia is a key player not just in the semiconductor supply chain but also in the data center industry in the region.

In Malaysia particularly, the data center infrastructure, “a layer of computing which is one of the most important parts of AI and cloud, is very successful,” Huang said. “And so I think that we’re going to see Southeast Asia participate across the entire technology stack, and Malaysia play a role in cloud infrastructure,” he added.

China could make use of Malaysian tech proficiency, while US firms like Nvidia also recognize the country’s potential. (image by Shutterstock).

Another loophole?

According to a report by Reuters, several Chinese semiconductor design companies are tapping Malaysian firms for chip assembly. The report said that the Chinese companies are asking Malaysian chip packaging firms to assemble graphics processing units (GPUs).

Assembling chips does not contravene any US restrictions. The sources also said that the assembling is not the same as the fabrication of the chip wafers. While the sources of the Reuters report declined to name the companies involved in the assembling, a few contracts have already been agreed.

The US recently updated its sanctions on chips towards China, which focused on covering some of the loopholes that were present in the previous sanctions announced in 2022. The focus of the sanctions remains mainly on the sale of sophisticated chipmaking equipment.

Malaysia, a major hub in the semiconductor supply chain, is seen as well placed to grab further business as Chinese chip firms diversify outside of China for their chip assembling needs.

The Reuters report quoted Unisem chairman John Chia as saying “Many Chinese chip design houses have come to Malaysia to establish additional sources of supply outside of China to support their business in and out of China.”

Unisem provides semiconductor assembly and test services in Malaysia. Its packaging and testing facilities are located in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, Chengdu, China, and Batam, Indonesia. It also has wafer bumping facilities in Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia and Chengdu, China. China’s Huatian Technology is a majority shareholder.

Apart from chip design, China is Malaysia’s largest trade partner. Malaysia is also part of China’s “One Belt One Road” policy. Chinese investments remain high in the country, across a variety of industries.

Asked whether accepting orders to assemble GPUs from Chinese firms could potentially provoke US ire, Chia said Unisem’s business dealings were “fully legitimate and compliant,” and that the company did not have the time to worry over “too many possibilities.”

Unisem’s customers in Malaysia included those from the United States as well. The US Department of Commerce did not respond to requests for comment.

By Aaron Raj (This article was originally published in TechWireAsia on 19th December 2023)

The post Could Malaysia’s Semiconductor Industry Help China?  first appeared on NMH.

While the modification serves its intended purpose by extending user experience, it also clandestinely harvests personal information from its victims, as indicated in a Kaspersky report recently. With an extensive reach surpassing 340,000 in just one month, this malware predominantly targets users who communicate in Arabic and Azeri, though victims have been identified globally.

Users often turn to third-party mods for popular messaging apps to add extra features. However, some of these mods, while enhancing functionality, also come with hidden malware. Kaspersky has identified a new WhatsApp mod offering not only additions like scheduled messages and customizable options, but it also contains a malicious spyware module.

The modified WhatsApp client’s manifest file includes suspicious components (a service and a broadcast receiver) not present in the original version. The receiver initiates a service, launching the spy module when the phone is powered on or charging. Once activated, the malicious implant sends a request with device information to the attacker’s server. This data covers IMEI, phone number, country and network codes, and more. It also transmits victim’s contacts and account details every five minutes as well as able to set up microphone recordings and exfiltrate files from external storage.

Kaspersky Researchers Alerted Telegram

The malicious version found its way through popular Telegram channels, predominantly targeting Arabic and Azeri speakers, with some of these channels boasting nearly two million subscribers. Kaspersky researchers alerted Telegram about the issue. Kaspersky’s telemetry identified over 340,000 attacks involving this mod in just October. This threat emerged relatively recently, becoming active in mid-August 2023.

Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Turkey, and Egypt witnessed the highest attack rates. While the preference leans towards Arabic and Azerbaijani-speaking users, it also impacts individuals from the US, Russia, UK, Germany and beyond.

Kaspersky products detect the Trojan with the following verdict Trojan-Spy.AndroidOS.CanesSpy.

“People naturally trust apps from highly followed sources, but fraudsters exploit this trust. The spread of malicious mods through popular third-party platforms highlights the importance of using official IM clients. However, if you need some extra features not presented in the original client, you should consider employing reputable security solution before installing third-party software, as it will protect your data from being compromised. For robust personal data protection, always download apps from official app stores or official websites,” comments Dmitry Kalinin, security expert at Kaspersky.

Recommendations

To stay safe, Kaspersky experts recommend: 

• Use Official Marketplaces: Download apps and software from reputable and official sources. Avoid third-party app stores, as the risk thet may host malicious or compromised apps is higher.
• Use reputable security software: Install and maintain reputable antivirus and anti-malware software on your devices. Regularly scan your devices for potential threats and keep your security software up to date.
• Educate yourself about common scams: Stay informed about the latest cyber threats, techniques, and tactics. Be cautious of unsolicited requests, suspicious offers, or urgent demands for personal or financial information. 
• Third-party software from popular sources often comes with zero warranty. Keep in mind that such apps can contain malicious implants, e.g. because of supply chain attacks.

Read the full report on Securelist.com. – NMH

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The post Kaspersky Reports Over 340,000 Attacks with New Malicious WhatsApp Mod first appeared on NMH.