JOHOR BARU: The Federal Government will allocate RM300mil over the next two years to enhance digital infrastructure, expand 5G coverage and strengthen cybersecurity awareness in Johor, especially in areas linked to the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister said the initiative, carried out in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Johor government, is aimed at supporting the state’s digital transformation and economic growth.
“This is in line with the Federal Government’s aspiration to help states like Johor improve Internet access, accelerate digitalisation efforts and raise public awareness on online safety and cybersecurity,” he said.
He added that development would prioritise high-impact areas, such as public transport hubs, industrial zones, data centre projects, as well as tourist attractions and stadiums – particularly around the JS-SEZ.
Fahmi said this after an exchange of memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the MCMC and the Johor government at Menara MBJB here yesterday.
The state government was represented by Johor state secretary Tan Sri Dr Azmi Rohani and MCMC by its executive chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din.
The ceremony was witnessed by Johor Regent Tunku Mahkota Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and Fahmi.
According to Fahmi, the first phase of the programme would focus on improving mobile network coverage and expanding 5G infrastructure in key JS-SEZ areas.
“The state government will assist with land matters, and we will also coordinate with local authorities to fast-track implementation,” he said.
Fahmi said MCMC will also work with the state to install public WiFi access points under the Johor Safe City initiative, aimed at providing secure Internet access for both residents and visitors.
He added the initiative further supports efforts to digitalise public and private sector services through the adoption of artificial intelligence and smart technology applications.
Meanwhile, Johor works, transportation, infrastructure and communication committee chairman Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh said the MOU aligns with the state’s broader Smart City and Safe City initiatives.
“As part of Safe City efforts, we will expand closed-circuit television (CCTV) coverage in the Greater Johor Baru area from the current 1,251 units.
“Within the Johor Baru City Council (MBJB) alone, we plan to install an additional 3,000 units,” he said.
Mohamad Fazli said Johor had identified 1,169 industrial hotspots within the JS-SEZ that require digital infrastructure upgrades, especially transitioning from 4G to 5G.
“As of now, Johor’s 4G coverage stands at 99.9%, with Johor Baru at 99.99%. For 5G, Johor Baru has reached 94.8%, Kulai 93.7% and the state’s overall coverage is at 84%,” he said.
Johor, he noted, has been recognised as the fastest-growing data centre hub in South-East Asia, with total capacity expected to exceed 2.7GW by 2027.
