Malaysia on track for 100pc internet coverage in populated areas by 2027

BATU PAHAT, July 4 — The government through the Ministry of Communications is targeting 100 per cent Internet access in populated areas nationwide by next year through the implementation of the National Digital Network (JENDELA).

Ministry of Communications secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah said that as of Dec 31, broadband coverage in such areas had reached 99.71 per cent, which reflected the high commitment of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

He said that before the implementation of Jendela, internet access nationwide was only around 90 per cent, but through the latest phase of the plan, MCMC will focus on Internet access up to 4G and 5G.

“We, the ministry and MCMC, will continue to expand access to 4G and strengthen 5G, including in rural areas, which is being implemented through cooperation and infrastructure sharing between telecommunications companies.

“With this method, it can accelerate the expansion of coverage and improve the quality of services to users,” he told Bernama after watching the live broadcast of the Fifa 2026 World Cup match in conjunction with JAPEN Arena Penggerak Komuniti (JAGO) programme in Kampung Istana, here today.

Also present to watch the match were Information Department (JAPEN) director-general Erwin Khairul Ahmad and Kampung Istana Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) chairman Abd Jalil Ali.

According to Abdul Halim, the expansion of good Internet access can launch various sectors including education and the economy, especially in rural and interior areas.

Meanwhile, Erwin Khairul said the JAGO programme is a continuation of the ‘wayang pacak’ programme which is now being modernised, but its role is maintained as a delivery platform information and government policies.

He said that currently, there are four multi-function vehicle (MFV) units operating nationwide and his party plans to increase the asset to 16 units in the future, besides targeting each state to have at least one unit of the vehicle.

“We will always move throughout the country including delivering government initiatives such as targeted diesel subsidies, exemption from ATM withdrawal charges and book vouchers for students.

“In addition, we JAPEN also collaborate with the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas) to broadcast local films to the community,” he said.

Meanwhile, Abd Jalil said as the host of the JAGO programme, his party was excited and at the same time proud when the village was selected as the Kampung Angkat Madani (KAM) of the Ministry of Communications 2026.

“Through this KAM programme, the residents here will benefit when the public hall built in 1950 will be upgraded with an allocation of RM400,000.

“In addition, another RM100,000 will be used by the local community for joint programmes and activities, including welfare contributions to the needy,” he said. — Bernama