In a recent update by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Malaysia has made significant progress in expanding its 5G network. As of April 2024, the country has successfully developed 7,065 5G sites. This expansion has led to 81.5% of residential areas now having access to 5G services, with a total of 11.9 million people (35.4% of the population) subscribed to the service.
The increase in connectivity also extends to Sabah, where 68.4% of residential areas are covered by 5G, with 545 out of 595 planned sites completed. Additionally, 4G coverage in the area has reached 96.92%, which is above the expected target.
The efforts to improve internet access do not stop at mobile connectivity. A total of 839 Orang Asli communities across Sarawak, Sabah, and Peninsular Malaysia have also gained access to Broadband Wireless Access through satellite services.
For further expansion, 647 new towers are being built in Sabah, with 398 expected to be completed by the end of this year. Some delays have occurred due to issues with contractors and state authorities.
The Communications Ministry, together with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), is keeping a close watch on the development of these projects, especially the JENDELA Phase One project, to ensure they are completed on time. Minister Fahmi has reassured the public that nearly all 400 towers in the plan will be ready by year’s end, significantly boosting connectivity in the region.
