Selangor begins a RM500-800 million dark fibre network to boost digital infrastructure, starting with a 41.1 km pilot in Cyberjaya to be completed in six months.
SHAH ALAM: The Selangor state government has launched a strategic project to build a state-owned dark fibre network, a move it considers as essential as roads, water and electricity.
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the 41.1-kilometre high-capacity underground fibre optic project in Cyberjaya is the initial phase.
It will form the foundation for the broader Selangor Dark Fibre Network, a planned 889 km open and neutral network.
“The fiberisation project is a current and future necessity to provide a strong digital infrastructure foundation,” he said at the project launch.
He stated the initiative supports the growth of the digital economy, including data centres and high-value investments.
The pilot project is led by state-owned SmartSel Sdn Bhd in collaboration with OCK Group Berhad as the development implementer.
Amirudin said the Cyberjaya phase is expected to be completed within six months.
It will then be expanded, starting with a 178 km route in Shah Alam. The state government aims to complete the entire 889 km network within three years.
The total project cost is estimated between RM500 million and RM800 million.
Funding will come through strategic private partnerships and support from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.
Amirudin addressed concerns about construction disruptions, stating the use of existing alignments like railroads and highways would be prioritised.
He noted cooperation with utility companies would also facilitate the use of relevant lines on state land.
“To become a smart state or smart city, the most important factor is internet connectivity, especially through fiberisation and speed,” he added.
The network is intended to serve as the digital backbone for Selangor’s development as a regional smart hub.
