Salam submarine cable project expected to begin in 1Q2027
Completion is expected by 4Q2029, while Jendela 2 preparations involve 1,000 sites nationwide, with 352 in Sabah.
The Communications Ministry expects the Madani Submarine Cable (Salam) project to begin in 1Q2027 and reach completion by 4Q2029. It is intended to strengthen connectivity linking Peninsular Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak.
Submissions are under evaluation by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the ministry said in a written parliamentary reply. An invitation document for the project had been published.
The proposed domestic submarine cable system would offer high capacity, route diversity and backup capabilities. The ministry said these features were intended to improve the resilience of Malaysia’s communications infrastructure.
The reply also covered Phase 2 of the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela), following questions from Datuk Shahelmey Yahya (Barisan Nasional-Putatan). MCMC is making preparations for Group 1 of Jendela 2, covering 1,000 sites across the country, of which 352 are in Sabah.
Coverage options include satellite broadband, public 4G mobile services or combined 4G and 5G services, depending on suitability. Kinabatangan accounts for the largest Sabah allocation, with 106 sites; Pensiangan has 55 and Kota Marudu has 36.
The ministry said MCMC would continue assessing needs before considering expansion to additional Sabah areas, including Putatan. Priorities and available funding would determine any extension.
