Malaysia calls for connectivity beyond populated areas

Doha has seen Malaysia advocating for a more comprehensive strategy to digital connectivity that extends beyond populated regions. This includes vital economic locales such as ports, railway networks, and highways, as reliable internet access is becoming increasingly crucial for economic expansion and resilience. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil revealed that Malaysia is contemplating the Coverage of Economic Areas (CoEA) concept to supplement the existing Coverage of Populated Areas (CoPA) strategy.

This shift underscores the necessity for digital infrastructure to bolster economic activities and national development.

Fahmi expressed hope that the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) would consider the CoEA concept alongside member states as a supplementary method for evaluating connectivity and fostering inclusive, sustainable digital growth. He explained that Malaysia is now focusing on ways to extend beyond CoPA to encompass key economic areas, like ports, railway networks, and highways, where dependable connectivity is essential for businesses, economic growth, and resilience.

Malaysia has achieved notable advancements in enhancing its digital infrastructure via the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela), particularly in remote regions. As of September, internet coverage had reached 99.75 percent of populated areas, and 5G subscriptions amounted to 31.3 million. However, Fahmi emphasized that expanding telecommunications infrastructure is merely the initial step towards genuine digital transformation.

Equally vital, he stressed, is ensuring that communities possess the requisite digital skills and opportunities to reap the benefits of improved connectivity.

For Malaysia, connectivity transcends mere infrastructure; it is about generating opportunities, empowering communities, and enhancing lives. The country is advancing digital inclusion through its 1,099 National Information Dissemination Centres (Nadi), which offer communities digital skills training and entrepreneurial prospects. In April 2026, the Nadi joined the ITU's Digital Transformation Centres network, reinforcing Malaysia's dedication to empowering communities through technology.

Regarding online safety, Fahmi stressed that meaningful connectivity must be backed by a secure and trustworthy digital environment. He highlighted Malaysia's Online Safety Act, enacted in January 2026, which bolstered platform accountability and safeguarded internet users, especially children, from online threats. Additionally, Malaysia's nationwide Internet Safety Campaign, which has reached over three million participants, promotes digital literacy and responsible online behavior.

Fahmi reiterated Malaysia's commitment to international collaboration in advancing shared digital objectives, noting that the nation has been an ITU member since 1958 and currently holds a position on its Council. He also sought ongoing support from fellow member states for Malaysia's re-election to the ITU Council for the 2027-2030 term.

"Let us collaborate to ensure everyone can benefit from a digital future that is connected, inclusive, and safe," Fahmi concluded. The ITU's Plenipotentiary Conference 2026, themed "Together for A Connected, Digital Future," convenes member states to deliberate on global telecommunications priorities and the future trajectory of digital development.

Fahmi, leading the Malaysian delegation, is in Doha from November 6-11, accompanied by Communications Ministry deputy secretary-general (telecommunications infrastructure) Mano Verabathran and representatives from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and telecommunications companies including Telekom Malaysia, CelcomDigi, Maxis, and U Mobile.

The ITU, a specialized UN agency for digital technologies, plays a pivotal role in international telecommunications cooperation, radio spectrum coordination, and efforts to mitigate the global digital divide.