Ministry Targets 100 Per Cent Internet Access via JENDELA

BATU PAHAT, July 4 — The government, through the Ministry of Communications, is targeting 100 per cent internet access in populated areas nationwide by next year through the implementation of the National Digital Network (JENDELA).

Ministry of Communications secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah stated that as of December 31, broadband coverage in populated areas had reached 99.71 per cent, reflecting the strong commitment of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). He noted that prior to the implementation of JENDELA, nationwide internet access was around 90 per cent, but through the latest phase of the plan, MCMC will focus on extending access to 4G and 5G networks.

“We, the ministry and MCMC, will continue to expand access to 4G and strengthen 5G, including in rural areas, which is being implemented through cooperation and infrastructure sharing between telecommunications companies.

“With this method, it can accelerate the expansion of coverage and improve the quality of services to users,” he told Bernama after watching the live broadcast of the FIFA 2026 World Cup match in conjunction with the JAPEN Arena Penggerak Komuniti (JAGO) programme in Kampung Istana here today.

Also present to watch the match were Information Department (JAPEN) director-general Erwin Khairul Ahmad and Kampung Istana Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) chairman Abd Jalil Ali.

According to Abdul Halim, the expansion of quality internet access can boost various sectors, including education and the economy, particularly in rural and interior areas.

Meanwhile, Erwin Khairul said the JAGO programme serves as a continuation of the traditional ‘wayang pacak’ programme, which has now been modernised while maintaining its role as a delivery platform for government information and policies. He said there are currently four multi-function vehicle (MFV) units operating across the nation, and the department plans to increase this asset to 16 units in the future, targeting at least one unit for each state.

“We will always move throughout the country including delivering government initiatives such as targeted diesel subsidies, exemption from ATM withdrawal charges and book vouchers for students.

“In addition, we JAPEN also collaborate with the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas) to broadcast local films to the community,” he said.

Meanwhile, Abd Jalil stated that as the host of the JAGO programme, his party was excited and proud that the village was selected as the Kampung Angkat MADANI (KAM) of the Ministry of Communications 2026.

“Through this KAM programme, the residents here will benefit when the public hall built in 1950 will be upgraded with an allocation of RM400,000.

“In addition, another RM100,000 will be used by the local community for joint programmes and activities, including welfare contributions to the needy,” he said.

-NMT