Budget 2021 expands on the strength of the previously announced economic stimulus packages in helping citizens, supporting small and medium businesses, and revitalizing the Malaysian economy in the wake of the pandemic-driven uncertainties.
While circumstances of the last eight months have been unprecedented, what is certain is that moving towards a digital first economy has enabled continuity and survival across all levels businesses, education, public sector, and personal lives. As we head into 2021, investment into expanding critical digital infrastructure and innovative services while democratizing internet access will be key drivers for Malaysia’s recovery and economic growth.
To that end, we applaud the government’s commitment to continue driving the growth of the country’s digital economy and road to Industry Revolution 4.0 by allocating RM42 million under the National Digital Network (JENDELA) to increase coverage quality in 25 industrial areas. This will be instrumental in accelerating transformation across various industries.
As more Malaysians rely on the internet to conduct work and studies in the coming year, it is important to address the pain points of connectivity. Ericsson strongly supports the government’s efforts to upgrade network connections across 430 schools within the country across all states with RM500 million from JENDELA. Additionally, the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC) assignment of RM7.4 billion in 2021 to 2022 to expand broadband connectivity is a sure step in the right direction for quality coverage.
Ericsson believes that the successful rollout of 5G hinges on the great incentives and provisions within Budget 2021. This will pave the way for the government, businesses, and citizens to deliver groundbreaking solutions to the pandemic, that can reach all levels of society.
As Malaysia continue the transition towards digitalization, 5G will play a significant role. 5G is a platform for innovation. In the near term 5G will help address the tremendous growth in mobile data traffic and will serve consumers, enterprises and take the internet of things to the next level, where superior connectivity is a prerequisite.
We look forward to supporting the government in delivering on such aspirations.
