Budget 2021: RM9.4 billion to close digital divide - MCMC

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) said the allocation would be able to provide better telecommunications infrastructure with the PRIHATIN Network programme and National Digital Network Initiative (JENDELA)

According to MCMC, the PRIHATIN Network programme costing RM1.5 billion would benefit eight million in the B40 group.

“The aid will reduce their financial burden to obtain internet service. They will receive RM180 each to spend on internet subscription or to cover part of the cost for a new mobile phone.

“It will be further supported by contributions from the industry by another RM1.5 billion for the same target group,” the statement said.

Under JENDELA, the government has allocation RM500 million for 2021 to ensure connectivity of 430 schools nationwide in all states for the development of the future generation, the statement said.

According to MCMC, RM42 million is also allocated to improve internet connectivity in 25 industrial areas to attract investment under the same plan.

“MCMC is also allocating RM7.4 billion for 2021 and 2022 to expand broadband services in rural areas,” he said.

According to MCMC, phase one of JENDELA has started and will continue until the end of 2022 to give focus on efforts to expand access of cable broadband with a speed of up one gigabit to 7.5 million premises.

The phase will also give priority to 4G mobile broadband coverage from 91.8 per cent to 96.9 per cent in populated areas as well as improving broadband mobile speed from 25Mbps to 35Mbps.

“(Phase one JENDELA) also involve terminating 3G network in stages until the end of 2021 to strengthen 4G network and boosting the basic network for 5G,” the statement said.