The Digital Economy Centre (PEDi) is set to undergo a rebranding exercise, including a change in name and function, by the second quarter of this year, as announced by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
The decision stems from the recognition that PEDi centres are utilised by the community for various activities beyond the digital economy, such as accessing government information, grants, and services, according to Bernama.
The rebranding aims to align PEDi with its evolving role as a community centre, incorporating functions like disseminating accurate information about government policies, assisting the public, and even being a learning centre about artificial intelligence (AI) for the local community.
Fahmi also highlighted significant improvements in internet speed at PEDi centres, reaching 300Mbps, particularly benefiting online learning and entrepreneurs.
Out of the 911 PEDi across the country, 80% already have speeds of 100Mbps and above, while six PEDi in rural areas are using Starlink with speeds of 300Mbps. Efforts are underway to enhance speeds at the remaining 20% of PEDi.
Fahmi noted the development of 186 new PEDi and reported that 1,542 individuals have registered with PADU at PEDi. However, he mentioned that officers from the Department of Statistics Malaysia are not stationed at all PEDi locations.
