MCA CEO appointed to ITU advisory body on submarine cable resilience

The Malta Communications Authority (MCA) has announced that its CEO, Jesmond Bugeja, has been selected to serve on the newly established International Telecommunication Union (ITU) advisory body on submarine cable resilience.

Submarine cables are the backbone of global communications, carrying over 99 per cent of international data exchanges. They underpin the world’s digital economy, enabling services such as international connectivity, finance, e-commerce, and cloud computing.

Recognising their critical importance, ITU formed an advisory body to address the growing need for secure and reliable submarine cable systems.

The ITU advisory body has been tasked with developing strategies to enhance the resilience of submarine cables. This includes safeguarding against physical and cybersecurity threats, improving recovery capabilities, and fostering global cooperation among stakeholders.

The MCA described Mr Bugeja’s appointment as a testament to his expertise and Malta’s leadership in promoting telecommunications resilience.

“His participation in this group emphasises the importance of global collaboration in protecting this critical infrastructure. It strengthens Malta’s role in ensuring secure global digital networks, which directly impact local businesses, international trade, and essential services like banking and e-commerce,” the authority stated.

In response to his appointment, Mr Bugeja expressed his commitment to the role. “This opportunity allows us to work collaboratively on ensuring the resilience of submarine cables, a crucial element in the global digital landscape. I am committed to contributing to this significant initiative alongside international experts,” he remarked.

With over 15 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, Mr Bugeja’s knowledge will play an important role in shaping strategies to protect these critical systems.