Minister Fahmi Fadzil clarifies NG MERS999 is a system upgrade, not a new project, expanding coverage to over 800 locations nationwide
KUALA LUMPUR: The Next Generation Malaysian Emergency Response Services 999 (NG MERS999) system is a continuation of the existing MERS999 framework rather than a new initiative.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil explained that the latest contract implemented by Telekom Malaysia involves renewing obsolete equipment and outdated software.
“A lot of the equipment and software had reached their expiry date,” he told reporters after officiating the closing ceremony of the Lembah Pantai Indian Community Cyber Scam Awareness Seminar.
Fahmi emphasised that NG MERS999 represents an upgrade to the system that has been operational since 2007.
The enhanced system now covers more than 800 locations nationwide compared to approximately 400 previously.
Regarding the SaveMe999 application, Fahmi clarified it was not a new development valued at RM1.25 billion as alleged.
He revealed the application has existed since 2013 and has only undergone improvements including integration of features for the disabled community.
“The development cost for the application is very minimal,” Fahmi stated.
“Most of the cost is for data management, which totals about RM830,000 per year.”
The government has requested Telekom Malaysia to integrate MyDigital ID and enhance user experience for the application’s next version.
Fahmi also highlighted the Cyber Scam Awareness Seminar organised by the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute.
He said the seminar aligns with government efforts to enhance knowledge and practical skills for identifying, avoiding, and reporting cyber scams.
Over 100 participants attended the seminar addressing the worrying increase in cyber scam cases affecting people and the national economy. – Bernama
