CelcomDigi and Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) have announced an inter-industry partnership to enhance the security of digital financial transactions in Malaysia.
The collaboration leverages CelcomDigi’s Open Gateway to provide more secure access to digital financial services.
A key focus of this partnership is to combat the rising threat of online scams and fraud.
By utilising Open Application Programming Interface (API) integration, PayNet will be able to verify DuitNow transactions through secure SIM-based authentication.
This method ensures that the mobile number, MyKad, or business registration number linked to a DuitNow user ID is active and belongs to the registered account holder, adding a critical layer of security to the platform.
SIM-based authentication offers significant security benefits.
Each SIM card is unique, securely stored within a mobile device, and is not easily duplicated, reducing the risk of fraud and scams.
This is particularly important given that PayNet processes over 13 million digital transactions daily.
The collaboration also aims to enhance security by working with financial institutions and the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) through the National Fraud Portal (NFP).
The NFP provides scam reports that enable CelcomDigi to quickly flag, block, and blacklist scam-linked phone numbers.
This approach also prevents fraudsters from reusing flagged numbers to create new accounts, further reinforcing security for all users.
Farhan Ahmad, Group Chief Executive Officer of PayNet, said,
“This partnership builds on the National Fraud Portal by adding real-time account verification through CelcomDigi, providing an extra layer of security for all users.
By harnessing Open APIs and collaborative innovation, we are driving a future where financial security and inclusion go hand in hand, empowering individuals and businesses to transact with confidence in an increasingly digital economy.”
Datuk Idham Nawawi, CelcomDigi’s CEO, said,
“By enabling SIM-based authentication technology, we are providing financial institutions with a more secure way to authenticate users, making digital financial transactions significantly safer. As scams and fraud rise—especially in the age of artificial intelligence—this initiative comes at a pivotal moment, reinforcing the need for stronger security as scammers grow more adept at bypassing traditional defences and exploiting digital vulnerabilities.
We look forward to expanding this partnership, working with more financial institutions to strengthen digital security and protect Malaysians across the country from emerging digital threats.”
