Johor Bahru: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has entered into a strategic collaboration with the Johor government to strengthen infrastructure, expand Internet network coverage and enhance public awareness of cybersecurity and digital literacy. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stated that RM300 million in funding has been allocated over two years to ensure the successful implementation of the initiatives under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed today.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, among the planned initiatives is the expansion of 5G network coverage, particularly in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Fahmi emphasized that the strategic cooperation would start immediately, with the state government and MCMC developing specific programmes over the next two years, supported by the estimated RM300 million. The first phase will focus on expanding Internet coverage, ensuring areas like the JS-SEZ have sufficient Internet access to fully benefit from 5G technology.
The MoU exchange ceremony between the Johor government and MCMC was graced by the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim. Also present were Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, State Public Works, Transport, Infrastructure and Communications Committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh, and MCMC executive chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din.
Fahmi highlighted that the collaboration would also involve improving mobile communication coverage to encourage the adoption of smart technology applications and artificial intelligence (AI) by government agencies, the private sector, and the public across Johor. He noted the enhancement of 5G coverage, especially in major cities and high-impact areas such as data centres, is crucial to drive economic and digital transformation in the state. Other initiatives will include capacity-building and training programmes to increase community participation in the digital economy, as well as awareness and advocacy programmes to promote the safe use of technology.
Meanwhile, Mohamad Fazli stated the MoU is significant, particularly in efforts to improve security features in Johor. This includes increasing the installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras involving four local authorities and efforts to upgrade network coverage from 4G to 5G across 1,169 identified industrial areas, including the JS-SEZ. Overall, Johor's 5G coverage currently stands at 84 per cent. Through this MoU, the focus will include the installation of CCTVs to help curb crime, traffic issues, and more. Enhancing 5G Internet access at the Sultan Ibrahim Stadium is also part of the plan.