Sabah achieves 98.7% internet coverage in populated areas, with new towers and fibre upgrades under the JENDELA plan.
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has achieved 98.7% internet and communications coverage in populated areas as of Feb 28, 2026, marking a significant improvement from 73.41% before the rollout of the National Digital Network Plan, or JENDELA.
Sabah Minister of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk James Ratib said the progress reflects the federal government’s continued commitment, together with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), to strengthening digital infrastructure across the country, particularly in Sabah.
Under JENDELA, 663 new telecommunications towers have been completed and are now operational in Sabah, while all 5,304 existing transmitter stations have been upgraded.
In addition, 335,254 premises now have access to fibre optic connectivity, while 138 locations are receiving internet services through satellite-based Broadband Wireless Access technology.
James said these developments form part of the government’s broader strategy to ensure rural communities are not left behind in the digital economy.
He was responding to a question from Alias Sani during the Sabah State Assembly sitting.
For the Sekong constituency specifically, he said three new telecommunications towers have been completed and are operational, while 98 existing transmitter stations have been fully upgraded.
He added that the government is also expanding collective internet access through the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) network.
Nationwide, 1,099 NADI centres are in operation, including 131 in Sabah.
The Point of Presence (POP) project has also been expanded to improve broadband accessibility through the installation of fibre optic hubs near schools and industrial areas.
Meanwhile, Sabah Assistant Minister of Works and Utilities Ruddy Awah said the state government is upgrading sewerage pipelines in Kota Kinabalu using Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) technology.
The project, implemented under the Kota Kinabalu Sewerage Scheme Programme, allows for pipe rehabilitation without open excavation, minimising disruption to the public while improving long-term system efficiency.
Ruddy said the CIPP method can extend the lifespan of sewer pipelines by approximately 50 years, making it a sustainable, efficient and cost-effective solution.
He added that the Sabah Sewerage Services Department is also planning further asset upgrades under the 13th Malaysia Plan, including the use of CCTV robotic technology for pipe inspection and structural reinforcement.
Responding to a question from Loi Kok Liang, Ruddy noted that one of the main causes of sewer blockages in urban areas is the improper disposal of rubbish and FOG (fats, oils and grease) into the sewerage system.
