KUALA LUMPUR (July 22): Quantum communication is key to futureproofing the national telecommunications infrastructure as cyber threats become more advanced, says S Sivaji, director of G Satt Sdn Bhd, a connectivity solutions provider.

Quantum communication — which is a method of using quantum mechanics to securely transmit information — provides the highest level of data protection, which is critical for sectors like finance, healthcare and government, says Sivaji.

This is critical for Malaysia, as the shift from a single to dual 5G network model allows competition and innovation across the two networks, he says. It also opens the door to implementing secure technologies like quantum key distribution (QKD) at scale. QKD refers to a method of securely sharing encryption keys using quantum physics where any attempt to intercept the key is instantly detectable.

Quantum communication will take centre stage at the inaugural International Connectivity Conference and Expo 2025 (ICC2025), highlighting its potential to enable secure networks and support industries such as finance, healthcare, and defence with tamper-proof data transmission.

The expo, co-organised by G Satt and the Madani Research Centre, will be held from July 30 to 31 at the Connexion CEC at Kuala Lumpur.

“Quantum computers are no longer something that’s going to happen [in a decade]. There’s a lot of developments that are going on … So, the country needs to be prepared to adopt and to develop new technologies to build trust as well as to act [determinedly against] threats,” says Sivaji.

“This is the first large-scale event that focuses on quantum communication. ICC2025 highlights it to position Malaysia as a regional leader in secure digital connectivity.”

ICC2025 will serve as a platform for industry leaders and innovators to showcase, explore and discuss technological advancements in communications such as 5G, private LTE networks, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven automation, cybersecurity and next-generation quantum communication systems. The expo is also a launchpadfor start-ups and researchers to present ideas.

“The objective of ICC 2025 is to develop an international conference and expo in Malaysia with a focus on connectivity ecosystems. [Additionally], cybersecurity is no more a cyber-related security issue but it is a national security issue and its impacts are beyond borders. Also, its impact on the digital economy is very huge,” says Sivaji.

“Overall, this event is looking into the connectivity ecosystem. When I say connectivity ecosystem, this covers land, mobile, subsea and satellite. [This means] the overall connectivity aspects along with their impact and applications on cybersecurity. In cybersecurity, we are focusing on quantum technologies.”

Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil is expected to deliver the keynote address. ICC2025 is also supported by the Ministry of Digital, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation and the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Co-operative Development.

The expo will feature panellists from leading global and local tech firms, including Intel, Huawei, CelcomDigi Bhd, U Mobile Sdn Bhd, Telekom Malaysia Bhd, Mimos Bhd, Siemens and international quantum research labs.

Discussions will cover key digital infrastructure topics such as 6G advancements, post-quantum cryptography, AI-optimised networks, quantum-secure connectivity, submarine cable resilience and the future of data centres.

To register, visit www.iccexpo.org or email the ICC Secretariat at [email protected].