Cloud Computing Roadmap: Strategic National and Economic Imperatives

Abstract

Cloud Computing technology represents the next quantum leap in internet super technology of the 21st century. In a knowledge-base economy, two primary facets of Cloud Computing technology are Internal Cloud Computing (ICC) and External Cloud Computing (ECC) Systems. In Malaysia, both Private Cloud Computing (pCC) and Public Cloud Computing(pCC) options are being concurrently assessed from both economic and security aspects for strategic implementation and adoption in the industry domain. In the design of a strategic roadmap, various Cloud Computing Framework are being reviewed. Of particular interest is the U.S. Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology(NIST) Cloud Computing Roadmap which is being studied by various governments for adoption and implementation at domestic/national level. This includes Malaysia and its “Cloud Computing Blueprint.” However, not all the strategic thrusts and terms as drafted in the US NIST are conducive for national implementation in Malaysia. Malaysia’s Cloud Computing Roadmap manifests different and unique national economic requirements, taking into account several security input factors. Besides the Internal Cloud Computing (ICC) and External Cloud Computing(ECC) options, other Open Cloud Computing systems are being considered as well in conjunction with other open source Cloud Computing platforms from a three dimension analytical perspectives : I). Technical Advantage; II) Economic Development, and III). Legal and Privacy-related implication.