SARAWAK will be among the first states to roll out the 5G network next year, after it was given priority under the National Digital Network (Jendela) plan and Malaysia Digital Economic Blueprint.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Annuar Musa said this is due to the state’s strategic location in terms of connectivity and geopolitics, among others.

“Connectivity-wise, its location makes it the most strategic state, including in terms of submarine cable-related development in future. One of the cables being planned will pass through areas in the state, which has been identified as one of the landing points.

“From a geopolitical aspect, the Borneo Islands location has become a strategic area. Indonesia is moving its capital to Borneo, and the (Malaysian) government intends to give Sabah and Sarawak the highest priority in terms of development planning.”

Annuar, who is on a two-day strategic communications roadshow in Sarikei and Tanjung Manis from today, said this after handing over the Malaysian Family Youth Package to about 20 recipients.

He said Sarawak is able to generate an environmentally friendly electricity supply, which is much needed in the manufacturing of data centres for cloud computing activities and others.

However, the ministry will still focus on the 4G network completion through the implementation of Jendela’s Phases 1 and 2, which will be launched soon.

Annuar said: “Phases 1 and 2 will allocate RM3 billion just for Sarawak.”

“This is a big agenda because Sarawak is a big state and has a wide population distribution, so we must ensure all residential areas are connected.

“If possible, we will provide a fixed line or fibre-optic network. Otherwise, we will use satellite… the latest technology will be brought to Sarawak.” – Bernama, November 27, 2021.