Some people were sceptical when Minister of Communications and Digital Fahmi Fadzil lay confidence on Malaysia having the potential to become an Asian digital ‘tiger’ if the country can achieve success in the three main aspects related to digital infrastructure and economy.
He said the first aspect is to resolve the issue of the last three per cent of populated areas that do not have network coverage.
“Secondly, to guarantee or improve the level of cybersecurity and personal data protection and thirdly increase the number of investments and expanding digital economy.
Fahmi said if these three aspects (can be achieved) with the cooperation of various agencies and parties under the Ministry of Communications and Digital (KKD), I believe the spillover from this effort can be enjoyed by the people and that success will eventually see Malaysia becoming an Asian digital tiger.
Fahmi said another equally vital component was the fact that many companies are beginning to consider expanding their operations in Malaysia, including adding to their total number of workers.
“This is also very positive, not just for the digital economy ecosystem in Malaysia but, eventually, indirectly making Malaysia a hub or site for these companies to expand in the Southeast Asian region and beyond.
“This is also one of our targets, where we see the infrastructure we have, either physically or through initiatives such as Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and Malaysia Digital, are capable of making Malaysia the main destination for investors to expand their operations in Malaysia and beyond in the Southeast Asian region,” he said.
Fahmi’s unwavering commitment to technological progress has clearly laid the course for Malaysia’s future as the results are clear a year in office as a Minister with the MADANI Government.
The unity government mark its first year since the Cabinet was established on Dec 3, last year.
Fahmi spearheaded a series of transformative initiatives, from expanding 5G coverage to combating online fraud, giving attention to the nation’s commitment to technological progress.
Among Fahmi’s key achievements include:
5G Implementation – DNB MNO SSAs
Malaysia’s five major phone network operators signed share subscription agreements (SSA) on Dec 1 to acquire a collective 70% equity stake in Digital Nasional Bhd, the country’s 5G wholesale network supplier. CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, Telekom Malaysia, and YTL Power International will each buy a 14% stake in DNB, pumping in RM233 million each – or a total of RM1,165 million – which will be used for DNB’s funding requirements.
Communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government will retain a golden share in DNB, as well as the remaining 30% stake, through the Minister of Finance Incorporated.
The share subscription is the precursor to the setting up of a second 5G network, which will be a commercial operation.
Despite Malaysia’s 5G coverage reaching 70.2 per cent, the adoption rate remained low. Fahmi launched the 5G Experience Centre and highlighted Malaysia’s outstanding 5G achievements with the country ranking third globally in average 5G speed. The focus was now on increasing 5G adoption among industries and the public.
Focusing on 5G Adoption
Malaysia is determined to reach 80 per cent 5G coverage in populated areas and increase 5G adoption. A RM60 million fund was allocated to address cybersecurity threats and ensure secure technology development.
Over two million Malaysians have adopted 5G since Fahmi took office and plans were underway to increase 5G adoption among the public and industries.
Sabah 5G network progress
As of Sept 30, the 5G coverage in populated areas of Sabah has reached 48 per cent with 401 out of 622 planned 5G sites successfully completed.
Petronas’ 5G
Petronas became the first company in Malaysia to implement a private 5G network for commercial purposes. Fahmi was committed to expand the 5G coverage to 80 per cent by year-end, encouraging private companies to adopt 5G technology.
Enhancing internet access
Fahmi stressed the importance of high-quality internet access in schools and industrial areas in the implementation of Phase 1 of the Point of Presence (PoP) Project in Sabah.
Sixty PoPs have been completed benefiting over 6,000 schools and industrial premises. The Rahmah Broadband Package was introduced providing 30Mbps at an affordable price of RM45 per month.
Internet – a necessity
Internet access has transitioned from being an option to a necessity. The telecommunications sector’s inflation rate decreased to -3.7 per cent and several successful internet price reductions were implemented.
The ministry will expand the installation of the Starlink satellite devices in Sabah and Sarawak to improve internet connectivity especially in rural areas.
Expanding digital economy centres
A total of 14 more digital economic centres (PEDi) were will be set up in Sabah with the aim of having one in each constituency. Fahmi visited a PEDi in Ranau and emphasised the positive impact of these centres on local entrepreneurs.
Bridging the digital divide
Starlink installation in Kampung Langsat, Ranau, reflected the ongoing efforts to address the digital divide and provide internet access to underserved areas.
Starlink connectivity in rural areas
In a hands-on approach, Fahmi personally checked the Starlink internet speed in Kampung Langsat in Ranau. The installation of Starlink has brought internet connectivity to an area that previously had none, benefiting over 500 residents.
The full installation of internet and telecommunication services was expected by the third quarter of 2024.
Combating online scams
Malaysia has experienced substantial financial losses due to online fraud. The government allocated RM20 million to the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) to tackle this issue and maintain awareness through the National Anti-Scam Campaign.
The ‘Be Vigilant ANTI-SCAM Protect Yourself’ programme was launched to combat online scams. Fahmi stressed the importance of raising awareness on online scams and enhancing cybersecurity.
Countering fake news
Fahmi also introduced ‘Biar Betul!’, a special segment on Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) to counter the spread of fake news and disinformation among the public.
Lowering inflation in the telecommunication sector
Fahmi reported a decrease in inflation in the telecommunications sector from 0 per cent to -3.7 per cent. This improvement was attributed to the continued six per cent service tax rate and planned initiatives.
Palestinian Humanitarian Fund
To show solidarity with the people Palestine, Fahmi launched the Palestinian Humanitarian Fund.
Managing recycled phone numbers
Fahmi also addressed the issue of recycled phone numbers, emphasising that all inactive numbers will go through a six-month quarantine period before being reused. This measure aimed to reduce issues and risks associated with such practices.
In reality, Malaysia is more technologically sound today as ever before.
