Kuala Lumpur:The government has announced a substantial allocation of RM5 billion to enhance the country's Internet connectivity under the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) project and over RM130 million to support the local creative industry as part of Budget 2027.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Communications Ministry revealed that this investment aims to expand 4G coverage to all Orang Asli villages and improve telecommunications infrastructure across the nation.
For the creative sector, the budget includes more than RM130 million to bolster the local film, music, and creative content industries. This support encompasses incentives for both local and international film and animation productions in Malaysia, along with additional incentives for projects that highlight Malaysian culture and national identity.
The government will also provide a full exemption from entertainment duty on tickets for films and local theatre performances in the Federal Territories starting in 2027. Additionally, 20 new intellectual properties are expected to be created, and Malaysian characters will be promoted on a global scale.
An allocation of RM142 million has been made to reinforce the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI), which plays a crucial role in expanding public access to information.
To address cybersecurity challenges, the Safe Internet Campaign will be introduced in all schools, focusing on combating cyberbullying and child exploitation.
These initiatives are anticipated to enhance connectivity, boost digital literacy, and improve the quality of output in the creative industry.
Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim presented Budget 2027, themed 'Malaysia MADANI Reaching for the Sky, Rooted in the Ground', on October 9. The budget outlines government expenditure of RM459.8 billion, with an additional RM25 billion from government-linked investment companies, RM11 billion from public-private investments, and RM14.2 billion from Federal statutory bodies and MOF Inc. companies, culminating in a total fiscal package of RM510 billion.