Selangor: The Selangor government is set to develop a comprehensive Dark Fibre Network master plan through Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated's subsidiary and Smartsel Sdn Bhd. This initiative aims to tap into new revenue sources, as announced by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the proposed 889-kilometre network will allow Selangor to establish its own high-speed fibre-optic infrastructure. A budget of RM1 million has been allocated under the Selangor Budget 2026 to kickstart this venture. The entire project is expected to cost RM267 million, with projections indicating a potential return of RM196 million over a five-year period.

Amirudin emphasized that the system will be developed on an open-access model, designed to minimize excavation works that could disrupt services. Beyond fiscal benefits, the Selangor Dark Fibre Network is anticipated to enhance digital access and bridge the digital divide between urban and semi-urban regions.

In addition to the dark fibre project, the Menteri Besar detailed other revenue-enhancing measures such as the Water Abstraction Charge and the Zero Discharge Policy (ZDP). To date, each initiative has generated over RM30 million. As of October 2025, the state collected RM33.61 million from the Water Abstraction Charge, edging towards a RM70 million target, while ZDP collections through the Selangor Water Management Authority (LUAS) have surpassed RM35 million this year.

The revenue obtained from the Water Abstraction Charge is earmarked for water quality improvements. Meanwhile, efforts to strengthen ZDP income will include amending the LUAS Enactment 1999, allowing funds to be directly credited into the Consolidated Fund.