Sabah’s RM32.31 million digitalisation fund targets rural connectivity, cybersecurity, and an inclusive digital economy to boost state competitiveness.
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government has allocated RM32.31 million to the State Computer Services Department this year to advance its digitalisation agenda.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the allocation covers operational and development expenditure to ensure efficient ICT-based government service delivery.
Of the total, RM9.59 million is earmarked for upgrading ICT facilities, managing data centres, strengthening cybersecurity, and developing application systems for state agencies.
“The state government, through the Sabah Maju Jaya Development Plan with support from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, continues to place digitalisation at the core of growth,” he said.
He added that priority is given to expanding digital access in rural areas, strengthening digital capabilities, and building an inclusive digital economy to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai at the launch of the new corporate identity of Celcom Timur (Sabah) Sdn Bhd.
On connectivity, Hajiji said strengthening digital infrastructure is critical to support communication and innovation across sectors, in line with the SMJ 2.0 direction for 2026 to 2030.
He said SMJ 2.0 builds on its predecessor and is designed to address increasingly complex global challenges, including rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and cross-border trade.
He stressed that close cooperation between the state government and industry players such as Celcom Timur Sabah is vital to bridge the digital divide.
He noted that the company has played a key role through the development of nearly 12,000 kilometres of fibre optic network across Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan.
“This network enables broader access to digital services, including in underserved areas,” he said.
Hajiji added that Celcom Timur Sabah has also contributed to national initiatives such as the National Digital Network Plan, Point of Presence, and the 5G network as a key fibre optic provider in the state.