The high-speed internet provided by fiber optic networks may not be accessible to many residents of rural areas, but don’t worry — Malaysia is about to experience a significant improvement in its Internet infrastructure. The project would establish Malaysia as a vital big data hub in the Asean region, with final completion anticipated in 2025.
Senior Works Minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof declared that the government has approved the project for MSA Resources Sdn Bhd (MSAR) to build and operate fibre optic cables along highways under the direction of the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM).
This new telecommunications infrastructure, with low latency technology along the country’s major highways, will be able to provide users with seamless access to broadband traffic, at both the domestic and international levels.
Cities and rural areas will be connected with a total of 4,000 Points of Interconnect (POI) which will enable high broadband coverage and will also contribute to the improved delivery of online public services, such as public health facilities, and open access to education, and an improved transportation system.
Senior Works Minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof
Having access to this digital network architecture, broadband network coverage, open access, and competitive pricing will help not only the neighbourhood but also small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and other service sectors, according to him.
According to Fadillah, the project will also help firms to transition from face-to-face interactions to digital platform enterprises and lower geographical company borders.
Managing director of MSAR, Saiful Husni Samak indicated that the project would be built in Peninsular Malaysia along the highway in three phases.
He said the installation of fibre optic cables from Johor Baru to Bukit Kayu Hitam is the Phase 1 network. Highways in the Klang Valley will be part of the Phase 2 network, while the East Coast States of Peninsular Malaysia will be connected by the Phase 3 network.
He also added, Malaysian ministries and departments, including the Malaysian Armed Forces and Royal Malaysia Police, will be granted access once these secure networks have been created. The LLM and concession companies operated by the LLM will also profit from the enhanced highway network services, such as free wi-fi facilities for their rest and recreation areas and along the highway.
