Gov't Committed To Expanding 5G Coverage To Rural Areas – Ahmad Zahid

ALOR SETAR, July 25 (Bernama) – Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding 5G coverage to rural areas, as part of efforts to ensure local leaders are empowered to use social media for communication with residents.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Minister of Rural and Regional Development, said his ministry will work alongside the Ministry of Digital and the Ministry of Communications to realise the effort.

“... 5G coverage must not be limited to densely populated areas, but extended to KEDA (Kedah Regional Development Authority) zones, FELCRA settlements and other villages. the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), in collaboration with the Digital Ministry and the Communications Ministry, is determined to bring 5G to rural areas,” he said.

He was speaking at the opening of the 2025 KEDA Rural Youth and Programme Implementation Planning Committee (4P) Convention here tonight. Also present was KEDA Chairman Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid.

Ahmad Zahid added that rural leaders must embrace and be proficient in technology, especially in using social media as a tool to connect and engage with their communities.

He also urged them to enhance their leadership knowledge in today’s modern era by balancing traditional and contemporary telecommunications systems.

He noted that grassroots leaders should engage directly with the people instead of relying solely on reports, stressing that true leadership requires integrity.

“A leader without integrity is like a house without pillars — it will collapse when tested,” he said.

Meanwhile, he announced that RM40.7 million has been allocated to KEDA this year to benefit targeted groups, including rural youth throughout Kedah.

“Of this amount, RM10.62 million has been set aside specifically for leadership and youth empowerment initiatives, covering leadership training, entrepreneurship, education, and skills development,” he said.

During the event, the Deputy Prime Minister also launched the 4P Committee Guidelines Book and presented titles for KEDA Village Housing Grant recipients.

-- BERNAMA