KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has welcomed the government’s strong emphasis on digital infrastructure and technology empowerment under Budget 2026, pledging to ensure that Malaysians across all regions benefit from more reliable and inclusive connectivity.
In a statement today, MCMC said it is committed to implementing several major initiatives announced in the budget to strengthen the national communications and multimedia ecosystem, expand internet access, and promote digital participation through innovation.
Among the flagship projects are:
1. Sambungan Kabel Dasar Laut Madani (Salam) – RM2 billion for a 3,190km undersea cable linking Johor, Sabah, and Sarawak to enhance internet connectivity nationwide.
2. Jendela 2 – RM780 million to expand broadband coverage to 2,700 new locations, particularly in rural and remote areas.
3. Internet Connectivity for Health Facilities – RM650 million to improve internet access across hospitals and government clinics.
4. National Information Dissemination Centres (Nadi) – RM350 million to strengthen 1,099 community centres as hubs for training and rural entrepreneurship.
5. Early Warning System (EWS) – RM210 million to develop a disaster alert system aimed at protecting lives and property.
MCMC said the record investment reflects the government’s confidence in the sector’s role in driving national development, aligning with the Communications Ministry’s agenda to reinforce connectivity, advance digital infrastructure, and empower citizens through technology.
The commission will also spearhead the creation of a Sovereign AI Cloud, a RM2 billion project designed to safeguard Malaysia’s data sovereignty while supporting ethical and locally driven artificial intelligence (AI) innovation.
The initiative includes the establishment of an AI Transformation Centre in partnership with Multimedia University (MMU) and a Centre of Excellence in Ethics for Emerging Technologies to guide responsible AI research and development.
MCMC added that it supports the rollout of the dual 5G network model, with both networks targeted to achieve 80% coverage by 2026, ensuring faster and more affordable internet for the public and businesses.
At the same time, the commission will expand its Safe Internet Campaign to promote cybersecurity awareness and responsible online behaviour nationwide.
“The initiatives under Budget 2026 reflect MCMC’s commitment to strengthening connectivity, improving service delivery, and ensuring all Malaysians benefit equitably from technological progress,” the statement said.
When tabling the budget yesterday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced a wide-ranging digital push, describing the investments as crucial to bridging the urban–rural divide and ensuring Malaysia’s digital infrastructure keeps pace with regional peers. — October 11, 2025