Zong Leads Pakistan’s Cybersecurity Push with PTA and Industry

Zong Leads National Push to Strengthen Pakistan’s Cybersecurity

Islamabad, October 28, 2026 — Zong has brought together regulators, cybersecurity authorities, telecom operators and academic representatives in Islamabad to strengthen Pakistan’s cyber resilience and promote a safer digital environment amid increasingly sophisticated online threats.

The industry engagement was held during the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority’s (PTA) National Cybersecurity Awareness Week 2026, under the theme “Building a Safe, Secure and Resilient Cyberspace.” The initiative highlighted the need for stronger coordination, shared responsibility and robust digital infrastructure to protect Pakistan’s expanding digital ecosystem.

Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar, Member Compliance and Enforcement at PTA, attended the session as chief guest. Senior representatives from PTA, the Pakistan Computer Emergency Response Team (PKCERT), the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, regulatory bodies, telecom operators and Zong’s leadership also participated.

Zong Highlights Cybersecurity Priorities for AI and 5G

Opening the session, Zong Chief Technology Officer Mao Weiliang stressed that cybersecurity must remain central to Pakistan’s digital transformation, particularly as 5G networks, artificial intelligence and technology-driven services continue to expand.

He said Zong uses layered security infrastructure, robust access controls and artificial intelligence-enabled, round-the-clock security operations to detect, contain and respond to cyber threats.

Weiliang emphasized that technology alone cannot guarantee digital safety, adding that cybersecurity requires collective responsibility and the active participation of individuals, businesses and institutions.

Cyber Authorities Call for Stronger National Collaboration

Director General PKCERT Dr. Haider Abbas highlighted the importance of national cyber readiness and sustained cooperation across Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.

Director General CVD at PTA Brig. Dr. Muhammad Mukaram Khan also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the need to develop a safer, more secure and resilient digital Pakistan.

The discussions focused on emerging cybersecurity challenges, including phishing attacks, SIM fraud and deepfakes, while underscoring the importance of awareness, preparedness and coordinated responses to evolving digital risks.

Data Protection and AI Security Take Centre Stage

Zong Executive Director Information Technology Ali Waqas discussed the importance of data protection and effective governance in maintaining digital trust.

Meanwhile, Rehan Siddiq, Head of Information Security at Zong, explored how artificial intelligence can strengthen cybersecurity capabilities and highlighted the need to secure AI systems against potential threats.

The discussions reflected the growing importance of protecting digital platforms, sensitive information and telecommunications infrastructure as Pakistan increasingly adopts AI-powered technologies and online services.

Zong Reinforces Digital Safety Awareness

For Zong, cybersecurity is a strategic priority as the company expands its role as a technology services enterprise, with AI enablement and technology-led solutions forming important parts of its growth strategy.

The company said safeguarding networks, data and digital platforms is essential to building public confidence, strengthening resilience and supporting secure participation in Pakistan’s digital economy.

Throughout Cybersecurity Awareness Week, Zong also promoted safer digital practices among customers and employees, encouraging responsible online behaviour and greater awareness of common cyber risks.

As Pakistan accelerates its digital transformation, Zong reaffirmed its commitment to working with regulators and industry partners to strengthen cyber resilience, protect digital trust and support an inclusive digital society in which people can connect and participate with confidence.