In a statement, MCMC said the funding would support major connectivity initiatives across the state, from improving high-speed internet coverage to expanding rural access and rolling out smart city systems in Kota Kinabalu.

A key component is the Kota Kinabalu Smart City initiative, launched through a strategic partnership between MCMC and Kota Kinabalu City Hall in December 2024.

Valued at over RM300 million, the project covers the expansion of fibre optic networks, installation of integrated 4G/5G smart poles, public WiFi at strategic locations, and deployment of smart CCTV systems linked to the city’s integrated operations centre.

To further close Sabah’s digital gap, the Jendela 2 programme will add 800 new sites – particularly in interior and island communities – at an estimated cost of RM1.4 billion.

The five-year effort is expected to benefit 3.7 million people and achieve full coverage in populated areas, said MCMC.

It also highlighted progress in community access centres, with 131 National Information Dissemination Centres operating statewide as of September.

Costing about RM210 million over five years, these centres provide internet access, skills training and digital literacy programmes to ensure that remote communities are not left behind.

Sabah’s armed forces housing is also being upgraded, with fibre-to-the-home connections installed at nine military camps, benefitting around 6,900 homes at a cost of RM14.2 million.

MCMC said it remained committed to ensuring that these efforts translate into tangible benefits for Sabahans, particularly in terms of network quality, user experience, online safety and smart city development.