PM Anwar announces RM2 billion MCMC allocation to expand internet coverage in Sabah, focusing on education and government services
KOTA KINABALU: The government has allocated RM2 billion through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission to improve connectivity in Sabah.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the funding will expand internet coverage across the state.
Priority will be given to colleges, public and private universities, and government offices.
Anwar acknowledged the initiative will take time to implement but emphasized the government’s commitment to better internet access.
“This will enhance the quality of education services and government administration,” he said.
He confirmed the allocation during a breakfast and Sembang Santai session with Sabah media practitioners.
“I have already announced it in the Budget. It will take a bit of time to complete,” Anwar told attendees.
The session included Sabah Journalists Association president Mariah Doksil and several media editors.
Also present were Bernama editor-in-chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj and Broadcasting Department director-general Datuk Suhaimi Sulaiman.
Daily Express editor-in-chief Datuk James Sarda and Utusan Borneo Sabah editor-in-chief Datuk Lichong Angkui joined the gathering.
Sabah is experiencing significant digital infrastructure improvements following the RM2 billion MADANI Submarine Cable Connection (SALAM) project announced in Budget 2026.
Prime Minister revealed the initiative during last month’s budget presentation.
Under the National Digital Network (JENDELA) programme, 4G coverage in Sabah has surged to 96.81% since implementation began in 2022.
This marks a substantial increase from the previous 73.41% coverage level.
An additional 877,500 Sabah residents have gained access to improved mobile connectivity through these efforts.
5G Coverage of Populated Areas (COPA) in Sabah reached 69% as of September through collaboration with Digital Nasional Berhad.
U Mobile is further expanding 5G services, targeting 80% coverage across the state.
Through the Universal Service Provision initiative, 608 of 703 planned communication towers are now operational statewide.
Existing transmitter station upgrades have been completed at 5,200 of 5,208 locations to extend mobile network reach.
Fibre-optic connectivity now serves 309,342 premises throughout Sabah.
All 138 planned satellite broadband locations have been fully implemented and are functioning.
JENDELA 2’s first batch in Sabah will involve approximately 150 sites with an estimated RM120 million investment. – Bernama
