Sibu: The federal government’s newly introduced Pelan Kabel Dasar Laut MADANI (MADANI Submarine Cable System) under Budget 2026 is set to bring significant internet upgrades and development opportunities to East Malaysia, particularly in Kuching and Sibu.
According to Irene Wong Lee Ting, Special Assistant to Sibu MP Oscar Ling Chai Yew, the initiative marks a significant step forward in bridging the digital divide between East and West Malaysia.
“In today’s digital era, the internet is no longer a luxury but a necessity – as vital as electricity and water.
“From education and healthcare to business and public services, stable and high-speed connectivity drives social and economic progress,” she said in a statement.
Under the 2026 Budget, the federal government has allocated RM2 billion for the construction of a submarine data cable system aimed at strengthening digital connectivity between the two regions.
This complements the ongoing JENDELA (Jalinan Digital Negara) initiative, which has a total allocation of RM4.6 billion and is implemented in phases: RM620 million in 2024, RM830 million in 2025, and RM770 million in 2026. The initiative aims to expand and enhance network infrastructure, including in key towns such as Sibu.
Wong said the initiative holds special significance for Sibu residents, noting that while the city is densely populated, many surrounding rural areas continue to suffer from poor mobile coverage and weak internet signals. Even in urban zones, users often face slow connections and network congestion due to high demand.
“For students attending online classes, entrepreneurs running e-commerce platforms, and professionals joining virtual meetings, the frustration of poor connectivity is all too familiar.
“This long-awaited plan will not only improve communication in rural areas but also ease network congestion in the city, ushering Sibu into a new era of high-speed connectivity,” she added.
She emphasised that East Malaysia’s network infrastructure has long lagged behind Peninsular Malaysia, with slow speeds and limited bandwidth in many regions.
The new plan, she said, would change that by enhancing transmission speeds, reducing latency, and promoting balanced regional development in line with the MADANI government’s vision.
Beyond faster connections, Wong highlighted that improved digital infrastructure would transform education, business, healthcare, and investment opportunities.
“In education, students and teachers especially in rural areas – will benefit from uninterrupted access to online learning platforms. In business, Sibu’s SMEs, coffee traders, and online entrepreneurs can better leverage platforms like Facebook and TikTok to expand their markets. In healthcare, stable connections will improve access to electronic medical records and telemedicine services.” she said.
She added that a stronger digital infrastructure would also help attract new investors, tech companies, and remote workers to East Malaysia, creating more job opportunities and stimulating the local economy.
“This is not merely about technology – it’s a symbol of fairness and hope,” Wong said. “When every household in East Malaysia can enjoy stable internet access, that’s when we truly achieve a connected and prosperous Malaysia for all.”
Wong concluded that the initiative reflects the MADANI government’s continued commitment to reform, reducing regional disparities, and ensuring that every Malaysian—regardless of region or background—enjoys equal access to progress and opportunity.
