Baku: Malaysia has been recognized as one of the countries offering the cheapest internet rates per gigabyte, highlighting the government's efforts to provide affordable and inclusive digital connectivity, stated Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia has successfully implemented its 5G network at an outstanding speed, resulting in the fastest 5G network in Southeast Asia and the second fastest in the Asia-Pacific region, following South Korea. "We are one of the 10 countries where the internet cost per gigabyte is about 2 cents," Fahmi remarked during a reception with the Malaysian Diaspora at Rumah Malaysia.
Fahmi emphasized the unprecedented cooperation among Malaysian telcos, stating, "We have not really seen a situation where the Malaysian telcos can sit together at one table and come to some kind of consensus." His visit to Baku from November 16 to 19 is aimed at leading the Malaysian delegation to the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25).
The minister's participation in the conference is part of Malaysia's efforts to retain its seat on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for the 2027-2030 term, following the country's candidacy announcement in July. He also updated the Malaysian diaspora on the success of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in October, which showcased Malaysia's diplomatic capabilities.
Fahmi expressed optimism about ASEAN's future, noting, "As a region with a population of 660 million, ASEAN is approximately one and a half times larger than the European Union. We have a very bright future if we are able to hold together and build up an ASEAN community."
The reception included attendees such as Tan Sri Mohd Annuar Zaini, Senior Advisor of International Affairs of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and Malaysian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Ahmad Kamrizamil Mohd Riza. Ahmad Kamrizamil highlighted Fahmi's participation in WTDC-25 as a testament to the government's commitment to enhancing bilateral relations with Azerbaijan.
Kelvin Chong, a long-time Malaysian resident in Azerbaijan and the founder of the Culinary Arts Centre of Azerbaijan, shared his enthusiasm about the event. "He shares with us a lot of updates and new information. The country is developed, and we are so proud and so happy with that," Chong said, expressing hope for increased Malaysian visits to Azerbaijan.