Post by : Anis Farhan

Quantum Leap in Southeast Asia

Malaysia’s growing ambitions in quantum technology have taken a significant step forward. In June 2025, researchers at the National Quantum Research Institute (NQRI) in Kuala Lumpur, in partnership with Universiti Malaya and the International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP), published a landmark study demonstrating stable photonic qubit entanglement at room temperature—a critical breakthrough for scalable quantum computing.

This achievement places Malaysia among a select group of countries advancing practical quantum technologies and signals the region's emergence as a serious player in next-generation computing research.

Why Photonics Matters in Quantum Tech

Quantum computers rely on qubits—units of quantum information that can exist in multiple states simultaneously. Most global efforts have focused on superconducting or trapped-ion systems, which require extreme cooling and expensive infrastructure. Malaysia’s breakthrough focuses on photonic qubits, which use light particles and can operate at room temperature.

This allows for lower-cost, energy-efficient quantum processors, suitable for applications in logistics, cryptography, and AI.

The NQRI’s prototype, named Q-Sutra, demonstrated consistent quantum entanglement across 64 qubits with an error rate below 1.7%—a global first for a tropical-country lab environment.

Global Recognition and Collaboration

The study, published in Nature Photonics, received immediate global attention. Leading quantum physicist Dr. Susan Lin of MIT called it “a milestone that may redefine quantum scalability in emerging economies.”

Following the breakthrough, Malaysia was invited to join the Quantum Technology International Advisory Board and has signed R&D MOUs with research institutes in Japan, Switzerland, and Canada.

Additionally, Huawei and IBM Quantum have expressed interest in setting up pilot innovation nodes in Malaysia focused on hybrid quantum-classical computing.

Government’s Role in Quantum Investment

Malaysia’s Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) has earmarked RM 1.2 billion (approx. US$255 million) toward quantum tech R&D over the next five years under its Quantum Malaysia 2030 Strategy. Goals include:

• Establishing a national quantum data center

• Training 1,000 quantum scientists and engineers

• Supporting commercialization of quantum-secure fintech and logistics platforms

The strategy aligns with Malaysia’s broader goals under the 12th Malaysia Plan and IR4.0 transformation roadmap, targeting deeper participation in emerging tech ecosystems.

Quantum Research in ASEAN Context

Malaysia is leading regional discussions around quantum cooperation in ASEAN, proposing a Southeast Asia Quantum Grid to pool research infrastructure and knowledge. Early-stage talks are underway with Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand to establish cross-border research grants and quantum testbeds.

If realized, this could be a foundational step in making ASEAN a unified quantum research bloc, enhancing regional digital sovereignty and innovation capacity.

Barriers Ahead

Despite the progress, several hurdles remain:

• Talent Shortages: Malaysia still faces a shortage of PhD-level quantum physicists and software developers with quantum specialization.

• Commercialization Gap: Bridging the research-to-market transition remains difficult due to limited venture capital in deep tech.

• Geopolitical Risks: Export controls and global quantum patent races could complicate international collaboration.

MOSTI is now working with public universities and global donors to expand capacity-building programs and academic-industry incubators.

Outlook: A Nation on the Quantum Map

With its photonic quantum computing breakthrough, Malaysia has firmly placed itself on the global map of quantum innovation. As the world inches closer to the age of quantum advantage, Malaysia’s early momentum could open doors to new industries, high-tech jobs, and regional leadership in the deep tech frontier.

If sustained, this breakthrough could evolve into the foundation of Malaysia’s quantum economy.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute academic or investment advice. Readers should consult technical experts or policy authorities for specific insights into quantum technology.