Sabah Allocates RM32.31 Mln To Boost Digitalisation Agenda

KOTA KINABALU, April 7 (Bernama) -- The government has allocated RM32.31 million to the State Computer Services Department (JPKN) this year to advance the state’s digitalisation agenda, focusing on expanding rural connectivity and promoting an inclusive digital economy.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the allocation covers both operational and development expenditure to ensure ICT-based government service delivery remains efficient.

Of the total, RM9.59 million is set aside to upgrade ICT facilities, manage data centres, strengthen cybersecurity, and develop application systems for state agencies.

“The state government, through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan with support from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI), continues to place digitalisation at the core of growth.

“Priority is given to expanding digital access in rural areas, strengthening digital capabilities, and building an inclusive digital economy to enhance productivity and competitiveness,” he said.

His speech was delivered by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai at the launch of the new corporate identity of Celcom Timur (Sabah) Sdn Bhd at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here today.

On connectivity, Hajiji said strengthening digital infrastructure is critical to support communication and innovation across sectors, in line with the SMJ 2.0 direction for 2026 to 2030.

He said SMJ 2.0 builds on SMJ 1.0 and is designed to address increasingly complex global challenges, including rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and cross-border trade.

He stressed that close cooperation between the state government and industry players such as Celcom Timur Sabah is vital to bridge the digital divide.

He noted that the company has played a key role through the development of nearly 12,000 kilometres of fibre optic network across Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan.

“This network enables broader access to digital services, including in underserved areas.

“Celcom Timur Sabah has also contributed to national initiatives such as the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), Point of Presence (POP2), and the 5G network as a key fibre optic provider in the state,” he added.

-- BERNAMA