CSM, Celcom Axiata, Huawei sign 5G Cyber Security Test Lab MoU

• Facility to encompass comprehensive 5G test bed system
• Parties will also jointly identify strategic cores in managing, mitigating cyber threats

CYBERSECURITY Malaysia (CSM), Celcom Axiata Berhad and Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a 5G Cyber Security Test Lab, with the objective of understanding, learning, managing, mitigating and reducing threats related to 5G security.

The 5G Cyber Security Test Lab was previously announced by Saifuddin Abdullah, Malaysia’s Minister of Communications and Multimedia, at the 'Connected for Shared Prosperity' forum hosted by Huawei, in conjunction with the Mobile World Congress 2021 last month in Shanghai, China.

According to CSM in a statement, the test bed is first of its kind in the Southeast Asia region and will encompass a comprehensive 5G test bed ecosystem incorporating technologies such as 5G radio access network (RAN), edge network, core network, cloud application as well as end-user devices which are equipped with security test tools and equipment.

“Cyber threats are on the rise and national security as well as public safety are of utmost importance to our daily operations. The relevant skill sets, knowledge and tools are required to protect organisations and individuals from cyber threats,” said Amirudin Abdul Wahab, chief executive officer (CEO) of CSM.

“This MoU aims to establish a strategic partnership for technological capabilities, strengths and capacities, which CSM finds necessary to adopt in realising our cybersecurity vision. I am confident that this partnership with experienced and committed partners, Huawei and Celcom, will ensure Malaysia’s interests in cybersecurity are well-protected.”

Idham Nawawi, CEO of Celcom Axiata Berhad said: “Today’s collaboration further signifies Celcom’s commitment and vigilance to further develop and innovate cyber security, especially in preparation of the introduction of 5G technology.

“We feel it is established at the best time as cybersecurity within today’s digital ecosystem has become more vital, especially since new norms require the rakyat to depend on technology and connectivity for education, business and livelihood.”

Idham said through this collaboration, Celcom plans to also engage and synergise their established business partners from various technology pillars and leverage on the Test Lab as a “a platform for research, analytics, development and assessment of secure IoT solutions for B2B and B2C.”

Michael Yuan , CEO of Huawei Malaysia, said that as a global technology leader with extensive knowledge and expertise in 5G, cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI), Huawei Malaysia is well-positioned to provide the technology, services and solutions needed to overcome cybersecurity risks.

“In this day and age, cybersecurity is more important than ever. Cyber-attacks have become so rampant and can be extremely damaging to both individuals and businesses.

“In line with Malaysia’s ambition to be the Asean Digital Hub, it is our responsibility as a technology partner to help the country realise that vision, by working on cybersecurity initiatives and building cybersecurity awareness,” Yuan said.

The parties will also jointly identify strategic core areas in managing, mitigating and reducing threats to cybersecurity and introduce the NESAS (Network Equipment Security Assurance Scheme) or other equivalent standards and requirements into Malaysia’s 5G network industry.