KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak’s internet connectivity has reached 91.93% as of July 2025, a significant improvement compared to 73.67% in 2020, says Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
He said the progress was driven by the implementation of the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela), which has expanded access across the state, particularly in rural constituencies such as Saratok.
"At the national level, internet coverage in populated areas now stands at 98.82%, up from 91.8% before Jendela was launched in 2020.
"For Sarawak, the figure has risen to 91.93%, while Saratok alone has recorded 94.82% compared to only 59.07% before Jendela," Fahmi said in a parliamentary written reply on Tuesday (Aug 19).
He said under Jendela, Sarawak recorded the largest number of newly built communication towers nationwide, with 892 out of 910 towers already completed and operational.
In addition, 4,665 out of 4,728 transmitters have been upgraded, fibre-optic coverage has been extended to 183,417 premises, and all 523 targeted locations are now connected via satellite-based Broadband Wireless Access.
For Saratok, he said 21 new communication towers have been built, all 91 transmitters upgraded, fibre-optic connections made available to 4,716 premises, and 10 locations connected through Broadband Wireless Access services.
Fahmi added that the remaining initiatives are expected to be completed in phases by the end of 2025.
The minister also noted that Jendela Phase 2 will be announced in the fourth quarter of 2025 to further address gaps in rural connectivity, including through the construction of additional towers and satellite-based solutions.
"Close collaboration between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, the Sarawak government, and agencies such as the Sarawak Multimedia Authority and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation will ensure inclusive digital access for all Sarawakians," he said.
Beyond Jendela, he said the Sarawak government has also introduced the SMART 600 initiative, aimed at constructing 600 new communication towers across the state.
As of July 2025, 431 towers have been completed, with 169 still under development, he added.
