KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) are forging a strategic partnership to improve broadband coverage through the construction of fibre optic infrastructure at 73 military camps nationwide.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the Fibre to the Home (FTTH) initiative involving an allocation of RM99 million, aims to provide a significant impact in facilitating daily tasks, including education, communication, and enhancing the living conditions of military families.
“To successfully implement this programme, both parties have agreed to establish a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today.
“In addition to enhancing connectivity infrastructure and broadband services, the MoU’s main scope also includes information and data sharing, training and awareness programmes, as well as human capital development.”
Fahmi said this at the launch of the ‘Perajurit Broadband’ initiative and the exchange of the MoU between the Ministry of Defence, represented by MAF, and the Ministry of Communications, represented by MCMC, here today.
Earlier, Fahmi and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin witnessed the signing of the MoU by MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din and Chief of Defence Forces General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman.
To ensure the smooth implementation of the project, Fahmi said a monitoring committee comprising MAF, MCMC, as well as network facility and service providers will be established to oversee the implementation.
MAF and MCMC will also work closely to prevent any duplication of existing infrastructure under this initiative, which is expected to be implemented by the end of this year, he said.
“In terms of data sharing, MAF will provide detailed information on the Rumah Keluarga Angkatan Tentera (RKAT) areas and military camp locations for MCMC’s reference in future planning.
“MCMC, in turn, will provide information on nearby communication infrastructure to assist MAF with planning, control, and security in military camp areas,” he said.
On the Perajurit Broadband initiative, Fahmi said that the package offers a 100 Mbps internet subscription at a price as low as RM49 per month, and that he would also ask MCMC to review an additional allocation of RM3.3 million to reduce the price to RM39 per month for the first six months.
The minister said that this collaboration would pave the way for more partnerships in the future between MAF and MCMC, benefiting all parties, particularly in terms of national security and defence.
Meanwhile, Mohamed Khaled in his speech said that the cooperation between MCMC and MAF will enhance the quality of life, well-being, and welfare of military personnel, especially those residing in camps nationwide.
“With access to information, the learning process will become easier and more affordable. The space and opportunities for generating additional income will be broader,” he said.
Mohamed Khaled said the initiative will involve 59,420 units of RKAT.
“This affordable pricing is a recognition and a way for the Unity Government to appreciate the contributions and sacrifices of military personnel in protecting the sovereignty of the nation,” he added. – October 11, 2024