KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will strengthen communication connectivity, expand the nation’s digital infrastructure development, and empower society through technology and innovation under Budget 2026.
In a statement today, MCMC said it is committed to implementing various strategic initiatives outlined in Budget 2026 to strengthen the national communications and multimedia ecosystem, ensuring that all Malaysians enjoy the benefits of technology inclusively and equitably.
Among the key initiatives under Budget 2026 is the MADANI Submarine Cable Connection (SALAM) project, with an allocation of RM2 billion involving the construction of 3,190 kilometres of undersea cables from Johor to Sabah and Sarawak to strengthen national connectivity and internet access.
In addition, broadband coverage will be further expanded through the National Digital Network (JENDELA) 2 project to 2,700 new locations, particularly in rural and remote areas, with an allocation of RM780 million.
A total of RM650 million has been allocated to enhance internet connectivity in public hospitals and health clinics to improve services for the people.
Under Budget 2026, MCMC will also provide RM350 million through the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) to empower 1,099 community centres as training and entrepreneurship hubs to help rural entrepreneurs generate income.
In addition, MCMC will develop an Early Warning System (EWS) to strengthen national preparedness and protect the public, involving an allocation of RM210 million.
To enhance the nation’s data sovereignty in a secure and ethical manner, MCMC will develop a Sovereign AI Cloud with an investment of RM2 billion.
“This initiative also includes the establishment of an AI Transformation Centre in collaboration with Multimedia University (MMU) and a Centre of Excellence in Ethics for Emerging Technologies as a hub for artificial intelligence (AI) research and development.
“MCMC also supports the implementation of the dual 5G network model to ensure both networks achieve 80 per cent coverage by 2026, thereby providing faster and more affordable Internet services for the people and businesses,” the statement said.
At the same time, MCMC will expand the Safe Internet Campaign to raise awareness of cybersecurity and promote ethical Internet use among all segments of society.
According to MCMC, the initiatives under Budget 2026 reflect the commission’s commitment to strengthening connectivity, improving communication service efficiency, and ensuring that people across the country enjoy the benefits of development equitably.
-- BERNAMA
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