MCMC: Madani submarine cable project expected to begin in Q1 2027, finish by 2029

The Madani Submarine Cable (Salam) project, aimed at enhancing communications connectivity in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak, is scheduled to commence in Q1 2027 and conclude by the end of 2029, according to the Communications Ministry. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently reviewing submissions for the project, highlighting its focus on developing a high-capacity, resilient domestic submarine cable system.

This system will feature diverse network routes and backup capabilities to bolster the country's communications infrastructure resilience.

In reply to a question from Datuk Shahelmey Yahya (BN-Putatan) regarding the Salam initiative's status in Sabah and the areas selected for Phase 2 of the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela), the ministry revealed its plans for the implementation. MCMC is preparing to initiate Group 1, set to begin next month, targeting 1,000 sites nationwide.

This includes 352 in Sabah, with the aim of expanding internet coverage via public 4G mobile services, a combination of 4G and 5G services, or satellite broadband, depending on a suitable approach.

Among the 352 sites in Sabah, the Kinabatangan parliamentary constituency leads with the most sites, numbering 106. Other prominent areas include Pensiangan (55), Kota Marudu (36), Kalabakan (29), Kudat (26), Tuaran (23), Penampang (15), and Ranau (15). The ministry also mentioned the possibility of extending the project implementation to additional areas in Sabah, such as the Putatan parliamentary constituency, contingent on priorities and funding availability.