Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
Malaysia will conduct proof-of-concept trials of direct-to-device satellite internet technology across multiple Sabah locations as part of JENDELA Phase II, alongside a major submarine cable project to boost digital connectivity and economic development.
Malaysia's Communications Ministry reported resolving 941 of 987 internet coverage complaints in Sabah through January-May 2024, with 5G coverage reaching nearly 69% in populated areas under Digital Nasional Berhad and 64% through U Mobile.
Malaysia's Communications Minister reports social media activity during Negeri Sembilan's state election campaign remains largely orderly, with only 16 complaints lodged. The final campaign week is expected to see increased online activity.
Facebook suffered a significant outage on July 19, affecting users globally including Malaysia. Access problems began around 3 pm local time, with users unable to log in or refresh feeds, particularly on desktop devices.
Parliament has approved amendments to Malaysia's telecommunications framework, introducing national security provisions and expanding universal service obligations to underserved areas while ensuring no new charges burden consumers.
Malaysia's Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil has introduced legislative amendments to strengthen the universal service framework by integrating national security criteria into telecommunications policy.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has directed the MCMC to ensure comprehensive 4G and 5G coverage at the Johor Bahru-Singapore RTS Link stations ahead of the service's January 2027 launch, prioritising seamless connectivity for cross-border commuters.
The Benut state constituency in Johor is set for a competitive election contest, with internet connectivity emerging as a central campaign issue. Pakatan Harapan candidate Abd Razak Ismail has prioritized resolving long-standing access problems, while Barisan Nasional's Mohd Sumali Reduan seeks to defend the seat.
Across Southeast Asia, governments are accelerating digital infrastructure and modernisation programmes. Indonesia targets 100 Mbps internet access, while Singapore and Thailand expand broadcast platforms and the Philippines eyes military upgrades.
Malaysia's flagship Jendela digital connectivity initiative has exceeded all its key performance targets, with fibre optic infrastructure now serving 9.94 million premises nationwide, according to Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
A cyberattack on Malaysia's Flexi Parking app has forced 64 local councils to temporarily halt parking summonses. The breach disrupted digital payments across Selangor and other states, prompting authorities to suspend enforcement action.
Batu Pahat MP Onn Abu Bakar has proposed a Wireless Bridging System project to enhance internet connectivity in seven underserved communities within Senggarang state constituency, with initial funding of RM100,000 to RM200,000 sought from the government.
Pakistan and Turkiye have committed to expanding their economic partnership, with discussions centring on a $5 billion annual trade target and establishment of a digital corridor to enhance regional connectivity.