Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil announced on August 10 that Sabah will conduct tests of direct-to-device satellite internet technology under the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) Phase II [1, 2, 3]. The project aims to enable internet connectivity directly from satellites to mobile phones at selected sites in Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia [1, 2, 3].
The Phase II rollout will cover more than 300 locations across the country and will combine telecommunications tower installations and satellite-based technologies that do not require towers [1, 2, 3]. However, Fahmi noted that installing towers in remote populated areas could take at least two years and face various challenges, prompting the use of alternative strategies such as satellite internet for those regions [1, 2, 3].
The MADANI Submarine Cable Connection (SALAM) initiative will also expand Sabah's digital infrastructure by laying submarine cables along the coastline from Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu to Tawau, with connections to Sarawak cities Sedili, Kuching, and Miri [1, 2, 3]. “Previously, the landing point was in Tanjung Aru, near Kota Kinabalu. But we found that the submarine cable needs to be installed along the coastline all the way to Tawau,” Fahmi said. “This is a new initiative that we believe will be very meaningful towards developing Sabah's digital economy” [2].
The Communications Ministry will oversee the implementation of all digital infrastructure projects in Sabah to ensure they stay on time and within budget. The ministry also plans to enhance digital literacy among the public [1, 2, 3].
In related cybersecurity news, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has identified over 2,000 fake accounts nationwide over the past 5-6 weeks linked to spreading misinformation, scams, and online gambling, with similar risks noted in Sabah [3]. Fahmi said the MCMC will intensify efforts to combat such cybercrime activities. "I have informed the Yang Dipertua Negeri that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission will double its efforts to combat fake accounts, especially those used for cybercrime activities," he said [3].
