By: Muhammad Nur Syazwan Wafiy Mohd Aseri
SERDANG, 11 November – Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) has taken a major step in strengthening the nation’s digital security when it entered into a strategic collaboration with Phison Electronics Corporation and MaiStorage to develop the Kriptografi Atasi Zarah Digital Signature (KAZ-SIGN), the country’s first locally developed quantum-resistant digital signature technology of its kind.
The collaboration, led by the Malaysian Cryptology Technology and Management Centre (PTPKM) at UPM, aims to explore the potential of quantum technology in data and digital communications protection in anticipation of emerging quantum computers that demand robust and hack-resistant security systems.
According to PTPKM Director, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rezal Dato’ Dr. Kamel Ariffin, KAZ-SIGN functions as a quantum-resistant digital signature that is built entirely on mathematical formulas developed by UPM research team.
“This technology enables secure data authentication, integrity and non-repudiation to be carried out even in highly advanced digital environments.
Our goal is to build a national security algorithm that can one day be adopted by major corporations such as Google, Telekom and financial institutions,” he said.
He added that the project aims to develop a national security system capable of withstanding threats posed by quantum computing.
“When we talk about cryptography, we must return to the fundamentals of mathematics. Mathematics comes alive when given purpose, and cryptography gives it meaning in the pursuit of quantum and information security,” he explained.
Prof. Dr. Muhammad Rezal said Phison and MaiStorage were selected as strategic partners due to their global expertise in microcontroller technology and their commitment to integrating locally developed cryptographic innovations.
“Their strengths lie not only in chip technology, but also in their readiness to adopt UPM’s security algorithms. This collaboration merges local mathematical capabilities with global technological expertise to create a Malaysian-made data security solution,” he said.
Meanwhile, the partnership is expected to be a catalyst for the formation of a sustainable national digital-security ecosystem, positioning UPM as a regional leader in post-quantum cryptography research in line with Malaysia’s aspirations to become an AI and Quantum Nation by 2030.
