Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) has welcomed Budget 2027’s emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, digital infrastructure and nationwide connectivity, saying the initiatives will strengthen Malaysia’s digital economy and enhance its competitiveness in the region.
TM Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Amar Huzaimi Md Deris said the government’s focus on wider AI adoption, sovereign AI cloud infrastructure and emerging technologies, including post-quantum cryptography, would support the development of a more resilient and competitive digital ecosystem.
“Budget 2027 provides strong impetus for Malaysia’s digital economy and inclusivity, particularly through its focus on improving access to digital infrastructure, wider AI adoption, sovereign AI cloud, enhanced cybersecurity and post-quantum cryptography,” he said in a statement.
He added that these initiatives would strengthen Malaysia’s digital capabilities and establish a stronger foundation for regional competitiveness.
Huzaimi welcomed the government’s continued commitment to improving digital connectivity through the expansion of the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), particularly in underserved communities.
The initiative includes improving telecommunications coverage in Orang Asli villages, higher learning institutions and Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) settlements.
He said the implementation of the SALAM submarine cable would further strengthen connectivity between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, supporting more reliable digital communications across the country.
TM also welcomed the Kempen Internet Selamat initiative, which aims to promote safer online participation and improve digital awareness among Malaysians.
The company believes these initiatives will help bridge the digital divide and ensure that more communities can participate in Malaysia’s growing digital economy.
On business development, Huzaimi highlighted the importance of supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in adopting digital technologies to improve productivity and competitiveness.
He welcomed the introduction of Geran Sejahtera MADANI, which is expected to accelerate business growth among MSMEs while supporting income generation and livelihoods.
Huzaimi said TM would continue playing an active role in helping smaller businesses adopt digital solutions and participate more effectively in the digital economy.
The telecommunications group also expressed support for continued investments in the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI), technical and vocational education and training (TVET), Kampung Angkat MADANI and Sekolah Angkat MADANI initiatives.
These programmes, alongside improvements to public infrastructure such as schools and hospitals, are expected to strengthen digital access and workforce capabilities.
Huzaimi said TM’s involvement in operating NADI centres, together with its Jangkau Digital and TM Future Skills programmes, has demonstrated how access to digital technologies and relevant skills can improve opportunities for local communities.
TM also welcomed the extension of green technology incentives under Budget 2027, particularly as Malaysia continues to attract investments in AI infrastructure and data centres.
Huzaimi said the growing demand for computing capacity would make energy efficiency increasingly important in ensuring sustainable development.
“The extension of green technology incentives is another positive measure. As demand for AI infrastructure and data centres grows, encouraging investment in energy-efficient technologies will be increasingly important to support sustainable growth while minimising environmental impact,” he said.
The incentives are expected to encourage greater adoption of energy-efficient technologies while supporting Malaysia’s ambitions to develop its digital infrastructure and advanced computing capabilities.
TM said its existing capabilities in cloud computing, AI, graphics processing units (GPU), cybersecurity and AI-ready data centres position the group to contribute to the government’s digital transformation priorities.
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