Fahmi: RM150m Postal Fund to begin operations in first quarter of 2027

KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian government has allocated RM150 million for the establishment of the Postal Fund, set to commence operations in the first quarter of 2027. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil revealed that the primary purpose of this fund is to ensure the successful execution of the Universal Service Obligation (USO), particularly in providing mail delivery services to rural, remote, and island areas.

In the face of rapid technological advancements, the evolution of the digital economy, and the surge in e-commerce, adjustments to policy, legislation, and operations have become imperative. Fahmi emphasized that the government is committed to safeguarding the interests of postal and courier sector workers, ensuring their welfare, fair compensation, and wages.

The Postal Fund will be overseen by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and will operate under a framework akin to the Universal Service Provision (USP) fund in the telecommunications sector. It is worth noting that although provisions for the fund were included in the Postal Services Act since 2012, it was only recently that the current administration initiated its commencement.

Fahmi disclosed that the MCMC will release a comprehensive statement outlining the expanded scope of the fund, which will extend beyond conventional postal services to encompass goods deliveries to remote areas beyond urban centers.