Huawei is a longtime supplier of broadband routers, network controllers and data center switches to Malaysian telecommunications companies. Al-Ishsal stated a comprehensive report on an investigation into allegations that Huawei's 5G equipment could aid Chinese spies has been submitted to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad by the National Cyber Security Agency, a bureau of the National Security Council.

 

There is 'no objection for Huawei to participate' in Malaysia's 5G rollout, Al-Ishsal highlighted, adding that Mahathir's recent visit to Huawei's research center near Beijing testifies to Malaysia's cordial approach toward the Chinese tech company. 'Cybersecurity is an issue that involves all service providers,' Al-Ishsal said. 'Thus Huawei is not special. We continue to monitor [the matter] because these things are dynamic and can [constantly] change. If we find any wrong behavior by any parties, not only Huawei, then we will call it out and advise the government and the National Cyber Security Agency.

 

The awarding of 700 MHz spectrum has been slowed since the first quarter of 2018, following the government's move to call for a public inquiry. Among the front-runners are Malaysia's top three phone service providers: Maxis, DiGi.Com and Celcom Axiata. Al-Ishsal said the 700 MHz allocation will empower telcos to roll out both 4G and 5G services, dependant upon the capability of the respective telco and needs on the ground.

 

Huawei, one of the few global 5G equipment providers, is mainly a smartphone maker but is growing both businesses in tandem. The alleged risks of Huawei's 5G equipment facilitating the eavesdropping on corporations and other concerns have forced Western countries to banish Huawei from providing the equipment. Australia, New Zealand, the U.K. and U.S. have prohibited Huawei from participating in their 5G networks.

 

5G is considered the next iteration of mobile connectivity, the successor to 4G Long-Term Evolution (LTE). The technology will enable for seriously faster smartphone data connectivity, enable autonomous vehicles and smart home networks, and improve rural fixed internet connections. While Huawei is blacklisted from bidding for government contracts, peculiarly 5G projects, in the United States, the Donald Trump administration has warned other advanced economies that Huawei's 5G equipment may contain 'back doors' that could be used for cyberespionage.

 

Late last year, parts of equipment supplied by Huawei were taken away from an emergency services' communications system developed in the United Kingdom. Germany was reported to think about stricter security standards to effectively block the Chinese company from its 5G rollout, and the Netherlands' largest telco has mentioned that Huawei will not be allowed to supply core 5G equipment, though the company is open to procuring 'less-sensitive products.'

 

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