Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will strengthen communication connectivity, expand the nation's digital infrastructure development, and empower society through technology and innovation under Budget 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MCMC stated its commitment to implementing various strategic initiatives outlined in Budget 2026 to enhance the national communications and multimedia ecosystem. These initiatives aim to ensure that all Malaysians benefit from technology inclusively and equitably.
One of the major projects under Budget 2026 is the MADANI Submarine Cable Connection (SALAM) project. With a budget allocation of RM2 billion, this project will involve the construction of 3,190 kilometres of undersea cables from Johor to Sabah and Sarawak. The goal is to strengthen national connectivity and internet access.
Broadband coverage is set to expand through the National Digital Network (JENDELA) 2 project, reaching 2,700 new locations, especially in rural and remote areas. This expansion involves an allocation of RM780 million.
A significant sum of RM650 million has been allocated to enhance internet connectivity in public hospitals and health clinics, aiming to improve services for the people.
Under Budget 2026, MCMC plans to allocate RM350 million through the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) to empower 1,099 community centres. These centres will serve as training and entrepreneurship hubs, assisting rural entrepreneurs in generating income.
Furthermore, MCMC will develop an Early Warning System (EWS) to bolster national preparedness and protect the public, with an allocation of RM210 million.
To enhance the nation's data sovereignty securely and ethically, MCMC will invest RM2 billion in the development of a Sovereign AI Cloud. This initiative includes establishing an AI Transformation Centre in collaboration with Multimedia University (MMU) and a Centre of Excellence in Ethics for Emerging Technologies as an AI research and development hub.
MCMC is also supporting the implementation of the dual 5G network model, aiming for both networks to achieve 80 per cent coverage by 2026. This will provide faster and more affordable Internet services for people and businesses.
Additionally, MCMC plans to expand the Safe Internet Campaign to raise cybersecurity awareness and promote ethical Internet use across all societal segments.
According to MCMC, the initiatives under Budget 2026 underscore the commission's commitment to strengthening connectivity, improving communication service efficiency, and ensuring that people nationwide benefit equitably from development.