KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 — Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has revealed top-line figures for Jendela Phase 1 which ended in Q4 2022. Based on the numbers, MCMC has exceeded its connectivity targets of Phase 1 and it is about to start Phase 2 which will further improve both fixed and wireless connectivity throughout the country.

According to the minister, Malaysia’s 4G network now covers 96.92 per cent of populated areas, which is slightly more than its initial target of 96.9 per cent population coverage. Meanwhile, the number of fibre-passed premises has hit 7.74 million which is above the target of covering 7.5 million premises by the end of 2022. In terms of download performance, it is reported that Malaysia’s average mobile broadband speed is now at 116.03Mbps, exceeding its initial target of 35Mbps.

Fahmi also added that 839 communities in rural areas have gained internet access through satellite connectivity in Sarawak and Sabah, as well as Orang Asli settlements in Peninsular Malaysia.

With the current internet coverage covering 97 per cent of populated areas, the Ministry will continue its efforts to ensure the delivery of quality internet services while looking into "potholes” and to improve the Quality of Service and Quality of Experiences such as highways, in-building and stadiums.

When it comes to 5G coverage, there are 4,363 5G sites as of February 2023 which provides coverage in 54.7 per cent of populated areas. As mentioned previously, the Malaysian government aims to expedite the 5G rollout to achieve 80 per cent 5G population coverage by the end of 2023, which is one year ahead of Digital Nasional Berhad’s schedule.

The full Q4 2022 Jendela report is expected to be released at the end of this month. For Jendela Phase 2, Fahmi shared the government has allocated RM725 million from Budget 2023 for digital connectivity projects in 47 industrial areas and 3,700 schools. Under Phase 2, the government will be prioritising the final 3 per cent of the population and it aims to achieve 9 million fibre premises passed by the end of 2025. Before the next phase of Jendela can be rolled out, the government needs to pass the budget and the committee will bring it up to Dewan Rakyat this Thursday. — SoyaCincau