Malaysia's communications minister has made it very clear that the country will dictate its own security standards for all players interested in taking part in its planned 5G network roll-out this year. The government agency mentioned on Monday that it would not exclude players based on allegations made by its allies.

The country's minister of communications and multimedia, Gobind Singh Deo mentioned in an interview that they are well aware of the concerns expressed by other countries in using services and products from certain providers. The official was likely referring to the US-led campaign to ban China's Huawei Technologies from participating in the global 5G rollout.

Gobind clarified that Malaysia will be making its own decisions regarding which companies it would allow participating in its 5G rollout during the third quarter this year. The official added that it will be setting up its own security standards, which will be used in making its selection.

Huawei recently revealed that it has already signed a 5G equipment supply deal with one of the country's leading network providers, Maxis. The Chinese firm also stated that it is currently engaging in talks with other Malaysian telecom providers, including Axiato Group's Celcom and Telekom Malaysia.

When asked directly whether or not his comments involved the US's campaign to block Huawei, Gobind stated that they are not looking at any one particular company and that their decision will not be based on other country's views. Malaysia is apparently planning to choose a company that can provide the right system that will suit their needs. Gobind stated that all companies generally pose some security concerns, which is why they will be conducting comprehensive reviews for each candidate.

The United States first launched its campaign on Huawei when it placed the Chinese firm on its trade blacklist in May of last year.The US continues to accuse Huawei of being a tool used by the Chinese government to spy on other countries. It also accuses Huawei of stealing trade secrets and conducting surveillance on US-based individuals. Huawei has repeatedly denied the allegations and stated that its products and services do not pose any security threat.

Malaysia is currently planning to issue mobile spectrum tenders in April of this year. The government has also revealed that it plans to spend around $5.2 billion over the next five years for the country's fiber optics infrastructure and its cellular coverage expansion plans. The project will involve the rollout of 5G networks in certain areas around the country.

The Malaysian government expects to have 5G network services available in specific sectors aimed at bolstering economic activity. These sectors include manufacturing, agriculture, entertainment, and media.