KUALA LUMPUR, The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will intensify efforts to enhance nationwide connectivity, expand digital infrastructure, and promote technology-driven empowerment under Budget 2026.
In a statement, MCMC said it will implement strategic initiatives to strengthen the communications and multimedia ecosystem, ensuring all Malaysians benefit from technological advancements fairly and inclusively.
Key initiatives include the Madani Submarine Cable Connection (Salam) project, with an allocation of RM2 billion to build 3,190km of undersea cables linking Johor to Sabah and Sarawak, improving national internet access and connectivity.
Additionally, the National Digital Network (Jendela) 2 project will expand broadband coverage to 2,700 new locations, particularly in rural and remote areas, supported by an allocation of RM780 million.
Another RM650 million has been set aside to upgrade internet access in public hospitals and clinics to improve digital healthcare delivery.
To support digital entrepreneurship, RM350 million will be channelled through the National Information Dissemination Centre (Nadi) to empower 1,099 community centres as training and e-commerce hubs for rural entrepreneurs.
MCMC will also introduce an Early Warning System (EWS) worth RM210 million to improve national disaster preparedness and public safety.
Meanwhile, to strengthen data sovereignty, the government will invest RM2 billion in developing a Sovereign AI Cloud, alongside establishing an AI Transformation Centre with Multimedia University (MMU) and a Centre of Excellence in Ethics for Emerging Technologies to support research and innovation.
MCMC reaffirmed its support for the dual 5G network model, targeting 80% coverage by 2026 to ensure faster, more affordable internet access for citizens and businesses. At the same time, the Safe Internet Campaign will be expanded to raise cybersecurity awareness and promote responsible online behaviour.
“These initiatives under Budget 2026 demonstrate MCMC’s commitment to strengthening connectivity, improving service efficiency, and ensuring equitable access to digital progress for all Malaysians,” it said.
