RM32.3m Boost to Power Sabah’s Digital Future

7 April 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The State Government is stepping up its digitalisation agenda as a key driver of economic growth, with a strong focus on expanding rural connectivity, strengthening digital capabilities and accelerating the development of an inclusive digital economy.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said a total of RM32.31 million has been allocated this year to the State Computer Services Department (JPKN) for both operating and development expenditure.

Of this amount, RM9.59 million will be channelled towards enhancing ICT-based government service delivery. This includes the provision of computers and network infrastructure to state agencies, data centre management, cybersecurity strengthening, and the development of government application systems.

“The State Government, through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan and with the support of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI), continues to place digitalisation as a core pillar of growth.

“Priority is given to expanding digital connectivity in rural areas, strengthening digital capabilities, and developing an inclusive digital economy, in line with our commitment to improving the state’s productivity and competitiveness,” he said.

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

Hajiji emphasised that digital connectivity now plays a pivotal role in enabling communication, driving innovation and unlocking growth opportunities across multiple sectors.

In this regard, he said strengthening digital infrastructure is critical to Sabah’s continued progress, particularly in realising the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 roadmap for 2026–2030.

“SMJ 2.0 is a strategic blueprint aimed at enhancing Sabah’s competitiveness, productivity and economic value in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

“It builds on SMJ 1.0, which focused on post-pandemic recovery and stabilisation, and expands its scope to address increasingly complex global challenges, including those driven by artificial intelligence, the digital economy and cross-border trade,” he said.

He added that close collaboration between the State Government and industry players, such as Celcom Timur (Sabah) Sdn Bhd, is essential to bridge the digital divide and accelerate the development of Sabah’s digital ecosystem.

The company’s corporate rebranding, he noted, reflects its readiness to advance as both an infrastructure provider and a strategic partner in shaping Sabah’s digital future.

To date, Celcom Timur Sabah has developed nearly 12,000 kilometres of fibre optic network across Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan, forming the backbone of inter-district connectivity and supporting industrial demands, particularly within the telecommunications sector.

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

“It positions Celcom Timur Sabah not only as an infrastructure provider, but also as a key enabler of inclusive digital development and a driver of Sabah’s competitiveness in the digital era,” he said.

He added that the company has also contributed significantly to national initiatives such as JENDELA, Point of Presence (POP2), and the 5G network, serving as the state’s main fibre optic network provider.