5G Rollout and Satellite Internet on the Horizon in Pakistan: PTA
Embracing New Tech: Pakistan Moves Toward 5G and Beyond
Pakistan is preparing for a major leap in digital infrastructure. Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (Retd) Hafeez ur Rehman, has confirmed that the authority is actively working on launching 5G services in the country. Speaking at a cybersecurity workshop and awards ceremony, the chairman emphasized the importance of embracing emerging technologies while prioritizing public trust and data protection.
“Artificial intelligence is a powerful and effective tool,” he said, “but it is also being misused for creating fake audio and video messages.”
He stressed that cybersecurity will be a critical pillar for a successful 5G rollout.
Satellite Internet Coming Soon: Regulatory Framework Ready
In a significant development, Rehman announced that the rules for the Pakistan Satellite Internet Regulatory Body (PSARB) have been finalized. Satellite internet services are expected to launch in the near future, expanding connectivity to underserved regions and strengthening Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.
“We must assure the nation that we are the protectors of your privacy and data,” he stated, highlighting the importance of data sovereignty, secure internet usage, and online privacy.
Cybersecurity Challenges and Progress
As digital infrastructure expands, so do threats. PTA Director General Cyber Vigilance, Dr. Mukaram Khan, shared insights into Pakistan’s cybersecurity landscape.
Key Takeaways:
- No major cyberattacks have been reported in the telecom sector recently.
- Pakistan has successfully defended against Indian cyber warfare attempts.
- PTA has improved cybersecurity readiness, scoring 8.8 out of 10 in the telecom sector.
- The authority conducts third-party cybersecurity audits of telecom operators to identify and fix vulnerabilities.
AI’s Role: Opportunity and Threat
The PTA chairman acknowledged the growing power of artificial intelligence in enhancing communication and operations. However, he also warned of its misuse—particularly in generating fake audio and video content, which poses risks for financial fraud and misinformation.
He emphasized the need for vigilant regulation and public awareness to combat these risks.
Looking Ahead: Secure, Connected, and Inclusive
With 5G and satellite internet on the way, Pakistan is positioning itself for a digitally connected future. However, authorities are clear: innovation must go hand in hand with robust cybersecurity, data protection, and citizen trust.
As global tech continues to evolve—with countries like China already exploring 6G—Pakistan’s leadership stresses that the race is not just about speed, but also safety and sovereignty.
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