Kuala lumpur: Further innovation in technology solutions and strong public-private partnerships are needed to meet Malaysia’s national connectivity goals, said EdgePoint Infrastructure, a telecommunications infrastructure provider. Its chief executive officer and founder, Suresh Sidhu, emphasized the importance of modern approaches, including infrastructure leasing, fit-for-purpose repeater solutions, in-building coverage expansion, small cell deployment, and both terrestrial and non-terrestrial backhaul options, to ensure high-speed and seamless connectivity across the country.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Suresh welcomed the government’s commitment in Budget 2026, the largest national budget tabled to date, highlighting the significant allocation of RM5.1 billion for the telecommunications sector. Key allocations include RM770 million for the remaining Point of Presence (PoP) sites, RM780 million for the National Digital Network (JENDELA) to expand broadband to 2,700 new areas, RM900 million for rural electrification and telecom expansion, and RM650 million for telecom upgrades in public facilities.
Suresh also remarked on the RM2 billion investment for a 3,190 km undersea cable, describing it as crucial for supporting the artificial intelligence boom and addressing the digital divide. He expressed hope that further projects planned by the Communications Ministry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will benefit underserved communities, particularly in Sarawak, Sabah, and the northern states of Peninsular Malaysia.
He anticipates receiving more details on these projects, recommending that they be based on concrete objectives and managed through a transparent and competitive process. This would enable telecommunications companies to participate actively and support the government in achieving its goals. EdgePoint Infrastructure, an ASEAN-based independent telecommunications infrastructure company, is headquartered in Singapore, with operations in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.