Sabah: The government has allocated RM32.31 million to the State Computer Services Department (JPKN) this year to advance the state's digitalisation agenda, focusing on expanding rural connectivity and promoting an inclusive digital economy. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor stated that the allocation covers both operational and development expenditure to ensure ICT-based government service delivery remains efficient.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, RM9.59 million of the total allocation is earmarked for upgrading ICT facilities, managing data centres, strengthening cybersecurity, and developing application systems for state agencies. The state government, through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan with support from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI), continues to place digitalisation at the core of growth. Priority is given to expanding digital access in rural areas, strengthening digital capabilities, and building an inclusive digital economy to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
The Chief Minister's speech, delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai at the launch of the new corporate identity of Celcom Timur (Sabah) Sdn Bhd at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), highlighted the importance of strengthening digital infrastructure to support communication and innovation across sectors, aligning with the SMJ 2.0 direction for 2026 to 2030.
He explained that SMJ 2.0 builds on SMJ 1.0 and is designed to tackle increasingly complex global challenges, including rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and cross-border trade. He emphasized the need for close cooperation between the state government and industry players such as Celcom Timur Sabah to bridge the digital divide.
He acknowledged the company's significant role in developing nearly 12,000 kilometres of fibre optic network across Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan, enabling broader access to digital services, even in underserved areas. Celcom Timur Sabah has also contributed to national initiatives such as the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), Point of Presence (POP2), and the 5G network as a key fibre optic provider in the state.