Krubong:Phase Two of the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA 2) is set to focus on expanding internet access to 2,000 rural locations in Sabah and Sarawak using advanced technological solutions tailored to local conditions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil announced that JENDELA 2 will cover a total of 3,000 locations. The populations of these areas vary from 20 to 300 people, necessitating different approaches to ensure effective internet provision.
In its first phase, JENDELA had distributed focus evenly among Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. However, Phase Two will concentrate significantly on the interiors of Sabah and Sarawak, with some locations also in Peninsular Malaysia.
Fahmi shared these details after officiating at the MADANI Kita Programme 2026 with the Paya Rumput@Tangga Batu community at the Krubong People's Housing Project. The event was organized by the Community Communications Department in collaboration with the Prime Minister's Office through the Performance Acceleration Coordination Unit.
Approximately one-third of the locations under JENDELA 2 will see the construction of telecommunications towers, while other areas will implement solutions suitable for their specific local conditions. Starlink satellite technology is among the options for areas with low population density and challenging terrain.
The latest Starlink technology, known for being small, portable, and energy-efficient, could be used to provide internet access in difficult-to-cover areas, including Orang Asli villages.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently announced a RM5 billion investment in JENDELA 2 as part of Budget 2027, aiming to enhance nationwide internet connectivity and extend 4G coverage to all Orang Asli villages next year.
Fahmi also mentioned that more than 30 PMK programmes would be held nationwide to improve public access to information about government initiatives, including those related to Budget 2027. The MADANI Monitoring Unit has been instructed to incorporate Budget 2027 information into these programmes to ensure public awareness and understanding.
The recent programme in Krubong attracted over 3,000 visitors seeking information on services and benefits from 35 ministries, departments, and strategic partners. Additional offerings included Rahmah Sales, Agro MADANI Sales, free health screenings, MyDigital ID registration, unclaimed money checks, and free haircuts.