Quantum Computing: Malaysia’s Next Leap - Nik Zafri's Overview

 

1.0 WHAT IS IT ANYWAY?

Here's a "simple" way of explaining it? (the "geeks" will understand :-)

Classical computers rely on bits (0s and 1s) to process information. Quantum computers use qubits, which can be 0, 1, or both at the same time thanks to two principles of quantum mechanics:

• Superposition - A qubit can exist in multiple states simultaneously,
• Entanglement - Qubits can be linked, so changing one instantly affects the other, no matter the distance.

This means quantum computers don’t just process faster they can explore a vast number of possibilities simultaneously, solving problems that would take classical supercomputers centuries.

2.0 POTENTIAL

Let me provide you with the 3 good examples :

i) Banking and Finance - which relies on Monte Carlo simulations to assess market risk, fraud detection, and portfolio optimization. Quantum algorithms can run these simulations exponentially faster. e.g. One investment bank could use quantum systems to price complex derivatives in seconds instead of hours, giving real-time insights into market volatility.

ii) Logistics - Malaysia’s manufacturing and port sectors (e.g., Port Klang, Penang Port) depends on efficient routing and supply chains. Quantum computing can optimize routes for trucks, ships, and flights simultaneously, cutting costs and fuel. e.g. A logistics provider like Pos Malaysia could optimize last-mile delivery during festive surges, reducing delays and operational costs.

iii) Cybersecurity - Quantum poses a paradox - it can break today’s encryption (RSA, ECC) but also provide quantum-safe encryption. Malaysia’s banks, telcos, and government agencies must prepare for “Q-Day” (the day quantum breaks classical security),

3.0 CATCHING UP?

Malaysia is not starting from zero. We have:

• Talent pipelines through UM, USM, UKM, and MMU in physics, engineering, and computer science,
• Growing AI ecosystem (Malaysia AI Roadmap 2021–2025) that can integrate with quantum research,
• Regional collaboration opportunities with Singapore, which already invested heavily in quantum research hubs.

4.0 CHALLENGES

High cost of quantum infrastructure, limited R&D funding, and brain drain. But Malaysia could leapfrog by :

• Partnering with global players (IBM Q Network, Google Quantum AI, Alibaba Cloud Quantum Lab),
• Encouraging public-private partnerships to pilot quantum solutions in finance and logistics,
• Training a workforce that blends quantum physics with computer science and industry know-how.

4.1 Sub-Topic : What about Data Center?

Yes, what about it? Some questions being posed at me during my visit to tech exhibitions.

a. Quantum as a Service (QaaS) - As mentioned above, quantum computers are expensive and delicate (they need cryogenic cooling close to absolute zero). Instead of everyone buying their own quantum hardware, they’ll be hosted in specialized quantum data centers, accessed via the cloud.

I foresee :

• Malaysia could attract investment by becoming an ASEAN hub for quantum cloud hosting,
• Local industries (finance, logistics, oil & gas) can then access quantum capabilities without owning the machines.

b. Data Center Optimization with Quantum

• Data centers face massive energy consumption challenges,
• Quantum algorithms can optimize power usage, cooling systems, and server workloads.

e.g. A quantum-powered model could balance workloads across servers more efficiently than current AI, cutting electricity costs in large centers like those in Johor.

c. Cybersecurity for Data Centers

• Data centers store critical data (banking, healthcare, government).
• Quantum threatens current encryption methods making post-quantum cryptography essential for data centers to stay secure.

Malaysia’s MDEC and CyberSecurity Malaysia could certify quantum-ready data centers to attract foreign investors.

d. Data Processing and AI Integration

• Data centers already power AI and big data analytics,
• Quantum accelerates certain computations (e.g., database searches, pattern recognition).

e.g A Malaysian data center serving logistics clients could use quantum-assisted optimization to speed up supply chain simulations across ASEAN.

e. Malaysia’s Edge

Malaysia is already an attractive site for data centers due to affordable energy, land, and submarine cable connectivity.

By integrating quantum R&D partnerships (with IBM, Alibaba, or Singapore), Malaysia can jump into the Quantum Data Center Era.

5. CONCLUSION

Quantum computing will not replace classical computing but complement it in areas where classical machines struggle. For Malaysia, the choice is clear: stay as a consumer of global solutions, or invest early and shape the narrative in ASEAN.

Quantum computers won’t replace data centers, but data centers will become the gateway to access quantum computing worldwide.

The next leap may not be in decades, it could be within the next 5 to 10 years.

Malaysia has caught up before, look at how we adopted mobile tech, fintech, and renewable energy.

The question is: ARE WE READY TO TAKE THE QUANTUM LEAP?

ESG IN MALAYSIA - PROGRESS, PITFALLS AND LESSONS FROM ISO - HARD TALK - NIK ZAFRI

Back in the 90s, ISO certifications were all the rage. Everyone wanted one, often not to improve their systems, but simply because they didn’t want to be left behind. That was the wrong mindset. ISO and any system was meant to shape culture, discipline, and resilience, not just tick compliance boxes.

Today, the buzzword is ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance). Since 2023, I’ve seen ESG on the agenda of almost every organization I visit in Malaysia. But those with real system implementation experience know this - ESG isn’t a sprint. It takes time to embed into culture.

Malaysia has made some strong moves such as the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) and National ESG Framework (NSRF), net-zero by 2050 targets, and even carbon market development. GLCs like Petronas, Sime Darby, and Maybank are integrating ESG into strategy and reporting. Industries like palm oil and electronics are under global pressure to comply. Green bonds, sustainability-linked loans, and Bank Negara’s climate risk measures show regulators are also pushing.

But the gaps are clear. SMEs which make up 97% of businesses often see ESG as costly compliance. Data is fragmented, standards vary, and greenwashing risks remain. Malaysia lacks ESG professionals, and universities are not producing enough ESG-literate graduates. On top of that, “S” (Social) and “G” (Governance) often take a back seat to “E” (Environment), while enforcement remains patchy.

So when some claim being a “leader” in ESG, I see it differently - it's a kind of defensive mechanisms towards a consultant especially an assessor. We can claim leadership in ambition and frameworks, but not yet in consistent execution. It’s better to say “we are working on it” than “we know everything.” The ISO era taught us the same lesson - systems must live in culture, not just compliance reports.

First of all, before claiming leadership in ESG, know the rules first. Standards such as ISO and other international frameworks provide guidelines, but ESG implementation is not a one-size-fits-all matter. Different industries have different approaches, and even within the same sector, practices can vary. From one system to another, from one implementation to another, the problems and shortcomings are also unique to the nature of each industry.

Regionally, Malaysia is ahead of several ASEAN peers, but not yet at Singapore’s level in governance and investor recognition. Globally, we are still developing with the next big tests being mandatory reporting in 2025, carbon pricing, SME adoption, and strong enforcement against greenwashing.

ESG in Malaysia is real, but uneven. The challenge now is not to chase labels of “leadership” but to build authentic, lasting practice from the boardroom to the supply chain, from corporates to SMEs.

So stop "boasting"

GIVE ME THE RM16,000,000.00 AND I WILL FINISH A RM70,000,000.00 FOR YOU - NIK ZAFRI

When someone claims that RM16 million isn’t enough to undertake a let's say a RM70 million project, it may reflect a lack of understanding about investment strategies, financing models, and cost optimization. RM16 million may not cover the full project outright, but it can be leveraged as capital to unlock the remaining funds.

Let me tell you ways to make a RM70 million project feasible with only RM16 million upfront:

1) Leverage Bank Financing / Loans – Use the RM16 million as equity and collateral to secure commercial loans or syndicated financing from banks, covering the balance.

2) Government Grants and Incentives – Apply for state or federal grants, subsidies, or matching funds, especially if the project aligns with public infrastructure, ESG, or national development goals.

3) Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Collaborate with government agencies or private investors, sharing risk and returns to reduce capital burden.

4) Phased Development – Break the project into phases or stages, using the initial RM16 million to start the groundwork. Each completed phase generates value and credibility for additional financing.

5) Equity Partners / Joint Ventures – Bring in strategic partners or investors to inject capital in return for equity or future profit-sharing.

6) Bond Issuance / Sukuk – Issue corporate bonds or Islamic Sukuk, using the RM16 million as seed capital to attract institutional investors.

7) Vendor Financing – Negotiate with suppliers and contractors for deferred payment, instalment terms, or profit-sharing arrangements instead of full upfront costs.

8) Value Engineering and Cost Optimization – Reassess design, procurement, and construction methods to reduce unnecessary expenses without compromising quality.

9) Asset Recycling – Use existing assets (land, facilities, or concessions) as leverage to raise additional funds through sale, leaseback, or securitization.

10) Pre-Sales / Forward Contracts – For real estate or industrial projects, secure pre-sales, leases, or long-term supply contracts to guarantee cash flow and reassure financiers.

In short, RM16 million can be more than enough to kickstart a RM70 million project, provided the person knows how to mobilize resources, attract investors, and structure financing smartly.

HOW MCMC RESPOND TO ONLINE SCAMS - BEFORE YOU SAY ANYTHING, READ THIS FIRST

To those who thinks that Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is not doing a good job (Think Again - get the facts right)

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has responded to the rising tide of online scams in Malaysia.

1) Content Take-Downs and Enforcement Actions

a) Significant removal of scam content

In 2024, MCMC, alongside social media service providers, removed 66,507 scam-related contents. From 1 January to 26 February 2025, an additional 19,200 items were taken down.

From January to mid-April 2025, approximately 30,427 scam-related items and 10,493 fake contents were removed.

By 1 April, MCMC had taken down 32,436 scam-related posts, amounting to an estimated RM799 million in scam losses.

As of 1 August 2025, the total number of removed scam posts reached 49,082, reflecting the ongoing threat and volume Malay Mail

2) Regulatory Measures and Collaboration

a) Stronger partnership with the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) - MCMC formally stepped up cooperation with the SC to enhance regulatory oversight of online scams. The effort includes joint enforcement, public education, and leveraging artificial intelligence for faster detection and takedown of scam content,

b) New subsidiary legislation in progress - MCMC is preparing a subsidiary regulation under the Online Safety Act (gazetted in May 2025). This includes requiring identity verification for social media advertisers (similar to Singapore) and transparency of ad sponsors (modeled after Taiwan). As of 15 July 2025, they have removed 46,817 scam content items in accordance with community guidelines,

3) Educating the Public and Enhancing Digital Literacy

Safe Internet Campaign (KIS) - MCMC launched the Safe Internet Campaign targeting primary and secondary schools, as well as public universities. By May 2025, nine schools had participated, raising digital awareness among younger Malaysian.

4) Fact-checking tools and chatbot

Tools like Biar Betul on RTM, the AIFA (Artificial Intelligence Fact-check Assistant) chatbot, and the portal Sebenarnya.my help users verify news and scams. As of July 31, 2025, AIFA had processed over 142,000 messages, about 769 per day.

5) Tackling Fake and Impersonated Accounts

a) Removal of impersonating accounts

In September 2025, MCMC took down 31 Facebook accounts falsely claiming to represent the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC). They warned the public to obtain NSRC information only through official channels and urged vigilance against impersonators.

It’s definitely not an easy task, try handling it yourself and you’ll understand. Instead of complaining, let’s show our support for Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.

GOOD AND SAFE PRACTICE IN CONSTRUCTION - ANOTHER OF NIK ZAFRI'S EXPERIENCE

Not a very long time ago, during my assessment visit to a growing construction company, I encountered a case that genuinely stood out as an example of proactive and correct action in construction management.

The project team faced a critical situation. After heavy rainfall, the excavation site for the basement structure began showing early signs of soil movement at the shoring wall.

Instead of waiting for further instructions or downplaying the risk, the team immediately halted all adjacent works, carried out a geotechnical review, and reinforced the shoring with additional struts and soil nails. More importantly, they resequenced the construction activities to reduce loading near the affected area while awaiting third-party verification.

What impressed me most was not only the speed of their technical intervention but also their integrated approach:

1) Risk Management - They documented the incident, conducted a mini risk re-assessment, and updated their risk register to prevent recurrence,

2) Safety Priority - Workers were evacuated from the affected area without delay, avoiding potential injury,

3) Stakeholder Communication - Within the same day, they notified the client, consultant, and authorities with a clear action plan, avoiding confusion or finger-pointing,

4) Long-term Solution - Instead of applying only temporary fixes, they incorporated permanent soil stabilization measures into the final design.

In the meeting, as the assessor, I highlighted that this was precisely the kind of culture and decision-making we expect in construction - swift, evidence-based, and prioritizing both safety and sustainability.

It was refreshing to see a team not just reacting to a problem but turning a risk into an opportunity to improve design and methodology.

Learning Through Observation and Demonstration

Photo Credit : The Edge

Construction workers, particularly foreign laborers, often acquire skills through practical exposure rather than formal training. By engaging daily in trades such as concreting, bricklaying, carpentry, plumbing, welding, and fitting, they gradually develop proficiency through observation, demonstration, and repetition. Over time, this experiential learning enables them to estimate dimensions, quantities, and material requirements instinctively, without relying on complex calculations.

Upon returning to their home countries, I heard and seen many of these workers apply their accumulated experience to build their own homes. Their competencies reflect a form of tacit knowledge, skills that are learned on-site, practiced repeatedly, and reinforced through problem-solving in real construction settings.

Notable characteristics of this learning process include:

1) Skill transferability - Techniques learned in one environment can be adapted to new and unfamiliar contexts,

2) Efficiency and intuition - Routine work cultivates an instinctive understanding of materials, tools, and processes,

3) Resourcefulness - Limited resources encourage creative solutions using locally available materials,

4) Self-reliance - Workers become independent builders capable of managing entire construction tasks,

5) Community contribution - Many extend their skills beyond personal use, contributing to family and community projects.

This demonstrates the effectiveness of experiential learning in developing practical expertise, particularly in labor-intensive industries like construction.

(Ironically, this is also my method of learning some trades in construction as well)

SECURITY SCREENING IN IMPORTANT BUILDINGS

Disclaimer : What I've written here is deemed as general information already observable by the public when visiting airports, courts, government ministries, or corporate headquarters. It is intended to raise awareness without disclosing building-specific layouts, names, locations, SOPs, or vulnerabilities.

In today’s world, the security of important buildings, whether government ministries, corporate headquarters, banks, or critical infrastructure facilities, is no longer just about guards at the entrance. Modern security systems combine people, processes, and technology to create a safe environment for employees, visitors, and stakeholders.

1. ACCESS CONTROL : THE FIRST GATEKEEPER 

Access begins with controlling who can enter.

1.1 Smart Cards and RFID - The most common method, where staff use identification cards to access turnstiles or secure doors, 

1.2 Biometrics - Fingerprints and facial recognition are increasingly adopted, offering stronger verification, and

1.3 Multi-Factor Authentication - In higher-security zones, cards are paired with a PIN or biometric scan for extra protection.

2. PEOPLE SCREENING - ENTRY POINTS

Once at the entrance, individuals are screened for prohibited items.

2.1 Walk-Through Metal Detectors - Familiar to most, these detect weapons or metallic objects,

2.2 Handheld Scanners - Used for quick secondary checks, and

2.3 Body Scanners - More advanced facilities may use millimeter-wave scanners, similar to airports, for detecting concealed items.

3. BELONGINGS 

Bags and personal items are also subject to inspection.

3.1 X-Ray Scanners - Standard in high-security offices, courts, and transportation hubs, and

3.2 Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) - Deployed in very sensitive facilities, where swabs or air samples are tested for explosive residues.

4. BACKGROUND EYES - SURVEILLANCE

Security doesn’t stop at the checkpoint.

4.1 CCTV Cameras - Deployed throughout buildings, often equipped with smart analytics for facial recognition or unusual behavior detection, and

4.2 Visitor Management Systems - Increasingly digital, with pre-registration, QR codes, and digital visitor passes improving efficiency and traceability.

5. BEYOND THE BASICS : HIGH SECURITY MEASURES

Airports, defense complexes, or research labs deploy additional layers of protection.

5.1 Vehicle Checks with undercarriage scanners,

5.2 Radiation or Chemical Detectors for sensitive environments, and

5.3 Auxiliary Police or specialized security teams to manage access and incident response.

6. STRIKING A BALANCE 

While these technologies might seem strict, they serve an important purpose - protecting people, information, and critical assets. Most of these measures are visible to anyone visiting such buildings, and they represent a growing global trend toward safer and smarter access control.

Security is no longer just a barrier, it’s a balance between convenience, trust, and protection.

SIDELINE - HARD TALK - BULLYING

When it comes to bullying, my own children have been victims not only of bullying, but also of vicious slander. However, because they have parents who are both vigilant and knowledgeable about rules and the law, immediate action was taken without compromise. We never brushed such matters under the carpet, not even when the signs of bullying whether cyber, physical, or verbal emerged during their university years.

All too often, high-achieving children/students become the prime targets of envy. One of my own children was once maliciously slandered by another so-called “high-achieving” student.

Let me be absolutely clear - one of the most dangerous red flags of a bully is when your child is falsely accused of “stealing” whether through mere hearsay or by planting so-called “stolen items” in your child’s school bag. This is not childish mischief; this is a calculated, destructive act.

History has shown that this very tactic has driven many innocent and unfortunate students in secondary schools and universities into despair some to the point of being murdered or driven to commit suicide by such cruelty.

False accusations of stealing are a classic modus operandi designed to divert attention from the bully. What enrages me most is when certain teachers or other parties (not all, but enough to cause concern) chose to exploit such situations, hiding behind the absurd excuse that “a top student would never bully.” That is nothing but sheer human weakness and a blatant denial of truth.

This is precisely why counseling must never be used as a convenient tool to conceal cases of bullying. I strongly insist that both schools and workplaces must have qualified, certified counselors not merely educators who have undergone basic pedagogical modules and are then conveniently labeled as “counselors.” That is wholly inadequate and irresponsible.