SEPANG, Aug 20 – Despite the promise of 5G and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform industries through automation, smart manufacturing, and real-time decision-making, Malaysia’s rollout is facing obstacles in the suburbs due to policy gaps and limited public understanding.
Universiti Kuala Lumpur’s Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Azraie Mohd Azmi, presenting his research at the 2025 Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Symposium, said that concerns over privacy, security, and inadequate infrastructure remain the biggest hurdles.
“Our respondents highlighted privacy and security as the primary concern, followed by infrastructure gaps,” he said. “In urban centres, people are increasingly aware of AI and 5G technologies and how these tools can benefit their daily lives and businesses. But in suburban areas, the awareness level is far lower. Many are unsure of the advantages or how to effectively use these technologies.”
His study, Addressing the Challenges of 5G and AI Adoption in Developing Economies: A Pathway to Digital Empowerment, also underscored fears of job displacement and a widening digital divide if adoption continues unevenly.
Dr. Mohd Azraie stressed the need for a comprehensive national action plan that tackles both technical and societal concerns. The proposed framework would prioritise infrastructure expansion, stronger data protection measures, digital literacy programmes, and a more coordinated government–industry partnership to accelerate adoption.
“In terms of education, we need to invest in digital literacy and training, particularly for rural and underserved communities,” he added. “Closer cooperation between government and industry is essential to unlock the full economic benefits of 5G.”
Analysts note that while Malaysia is progressing in rolling out advanced connectivity in urban areas, bridging the awareness and infrastructure gap in suburban and rural regions will be critical to ensuring that 5G and AI deliver inclusive growth rather than deepen existing inequalities.
