MCMC calls for draft plans under JENDELA 2 to expand 4G/5G and WiFi to 2,700 sites, targeting 217,000 residents in rural and remote areas nationwide.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has issued its first call for draft plans under the National Digital Network Phase 2 initiative.
This reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening national digital infrastructure and connectivity.
The implementation of Group 1 will adopt a fit-for-purpose approach, including 4G and 5G public cellular services and WiFi via satellite.
It will also introduce a Neutral Host Platform for the first time in the programme.
This platform allows users to access WiFi networks using their existing mobile data plans from their own operators.
MCMC stated this supports a more consistent and seamless user experience.
Group 1 covers 1,000 sites nationwide, with 31.1% in Peninsular Malaysia, 33.7% in Sarawak and 35.2% in Sabah.
The project is expected to begin as early as the third quarter of 2026, subject to evaluation and governance processes.
The remaining 1,700 sites will be implemented in subsequent groups, which MCMC will finalise later.
Since JENDELA Phase 1, the government has progressed in expanding coverage and improving service quality.
JENDELA 2 continues these efforts to bridge coverage gaps and enhance network performance.
The initiative is designed to expand access to high-quality broadband, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
It supports the national agenda to expand Internet coverage to 2,700 sites nationwide.
This will benefit approximately 217,000 residents in rural and remote areas, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.
The statement said it ensures these communities continue to receive attention in the national development agenda.
MCMC is inviting eligible licensees to submit their Registration of Interest and Universal Service Provision Draft Plans.
This is in line with Regulation 5 of the Communications and Multimedia (Universal Service Provision) Regulations 2002.
Submissions must be made within the stipulated period as a basis for evaluation to identify suitable licensees.
The commission added it will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure JENDELA 2’s smooth implementation.
It aims to deliver quality digital connectivity across the country.
