Malaysia needs stronger fibre network to power AI boom – Fahmi

Malaysia must bolster its fibre connectivity infrastructure to meet the soaring demands of artificial intelligence (AI) and maintain a competitive, resilient, and forward-looking digital ecosystem, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil asserted. The surge in AI development is generating unprecedented requirements for computing capacity, data centres, high-capacity networks, and dependable digital connectivity, according to Fahmi, whose remarks were read at the FiberConnect APAC Conference 2026's inauguration.

He emphasized that the AI revolution's strength hinges on the supporting physical digital infrastructure. Fibre networks serve as the backbone for the AI economy, connecting data centres, mobile networks, businesses, residences, smart cities, cloud infrastructure, and international networks. Fahmi highlighted that as demand for faster, more reliable, and higher-capacity connectivity escalates alongside increasing data volumes and digital traffic, Malaysia is strategically positioned to leverage regional digital infrastructure and AI ecosystem opportunities, considering its central location in Southeast Asia, burgeoning digital economy, data centre sector, and extensive connectivity infrastructure.

Nonetheless, he stressed that infrastructure development must stay in sync with future demands while ensuring security, scalability, and sustainability. Fahmi underscored that advancements in optical fibre, AI-ready networks, data centre interconnects, and intelligent infrastructure would be pivotal for the upcoming digital transformation phase.

He stressed the importance of collaboration among the government, regulators, telecommunications operators, infrastructure providers, technology companies, investors, researchers, and industry associations. Fahmi underscored that inclusive digital infrastructure development should ensure that businesses, communities, and society at large benefit from increased connectivity and emerging technologies.

Connectivity transcends mere speed and capacity; it is fundamentally about people and opportunities. Furthermore, Fahmi stressed the growing significance of regional collaboration across ASEAN and the broader Asia-Pacific region, as data, cloud services, submarine networks, digital platforms, and AI infrastructure traverse national boundaries.

He described the FiberConnect APAC Conference as a vital platform for industry stakeholders to exchange insights, investigate emerging technologies, establish partnerships, and pinpoint prospects for advancing next-generation digital infrastructure.