KUALA LUMPUR: The Communications and Digital Ministry is confident that it will be able to provide more affordable and better coverage of 5G internet service nationwide soon.

Communications and Digital (KKD) Minister Fahmi Fadzil said it is grateful for the RM 2.737 billion allocation given to the ministry under the 2023 Budget for various digitalisation projects and efforts across several sectors.

He said with the allocation entrusted to the ministry, the people can expect better 5G connectivity nationwide, including faster implementation of the Jendela project.

Fahmi said the Jendela project will be accelerated to provide digital connectivity in 47 industrial areas.

"Under Jendela, nearly 3,700 schools will also benefit from the RM725 million project.

"The ministry also welcomes the government's recommendation for Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) to be managed more transparently so that people can get comprehensive 5G coverage at a reasonable price," he said in a statement after the tabling of the 2023 Budget in Parliament today.

Fahmi said the role of the Digital Economy Center (PEDi) will also be strengthened to help small traders acquire ICT and e-commerce knowledge.

"We expect to set up at least one PEDi centre at each district to improve digital literacy among the local community, as well as to encourage community participation in digital economic activities in tandem

with KKD, initiatives," he said.

Fahmi said the ministry has also been entrusted with carrying out various initiatives such as the Digital AgTech programme, strengthening the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC) and Cyber Security Malaysia's role to curb online fraud crimes.

"The RM102 million allocation for the Digital Content Fund is expected to open up more opportunities for artists to produce creative works such as high-quality films, animations and music that are not only successful in the local market but may also be able to penetrate the international market," he said.

He said the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) will also be given a tax deduction on top of an exemption of import duty and sales tax for studio equipment and production filming purchases.

Fahmi said through the Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the ministry will train more farmers to use digital technology via the Digital AgTech program which received a RM10 million allocation.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/02/883337/budget-2023-communications-and-digital-ministry-hopeful-better-more