Malaysia allocates RM5 billion to expand JENDELA digital coverage

The Malaysian government has allocated RM5 billion for the Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) initiative under Budget 2027 to expand high-quality internet coverage in rural and remote areas, including Orang Asli villages. The allocation aims to enhance connectivity along 7,000 kilometers of roads and highways and 1,700 kilometers of rail tracks nationwide.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that the second phase of JENDELA 2 will focus on 3,000 locations, with a significant emphasis on remote areas in Sabah and Sarawak. While the first phase distributed locations equally across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak, the second phase prioritizes the interior of East Malaysia. To address geographical challenges, the government may utilize various technologies, including Starlink satellite solutions for low-density areas.

Additional digital investments include RM1 billion for the PERSADA initiative to bolster the national digital health ecosystem through electronic medical records and telemedicine, and RM142 million to empower National Information Dissemination Centres (NADI) with AI and digital skills training. The MADANI Submarine Cable System (SALAM) is also being developed to increase network capacity between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.