Lim Guan Eng

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11  -- The government will implement the National Fiberisation & Connectivity Plan (NFCP) over the next five years, to provide comprehensive coverage of high speed and quality digital connectivity nationwide, including in rural areas.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said the NFCP will adopt a public-private partnership approach and involve a total investment of RM21.6 billion.

“The government, through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will finance at least half the required investment, with corresponding investments by the private sector telecommunications players via a matching grant mechanism,” he said when tabling the 2020 Budget in Parliament here, today.

As part of the NFCP, he said the government will improve connectivity in remote areas of Malaysia, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, to ensure no one is left behind in the country’s digital drive.

He said the MCMC will allocate RM250 million to leverage on various technologies, including via satellite broadband connectivity.

“In addition, the government will allocate RM210 million to accelerate the deployment of new digital infrastructure for public buildings, particularly schools and also high impact areas such as industrial parks.

“Priority will be given to locations within states that are able to facilitate and expedite the implementation of the NFCP,” he added.

-- BERNAMA