Budget 2027: RM309M for SMART towers to expand Sarawak internet coverage

SARAWAK will provide RM309 million under Alternative Funding in 2027 to continue the construction of SMART telecommunications towers and strengthen internet coverage across the state.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the towers, together with those built under the federal government’s JENDELA initiative, would strengthen connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

“A strong digital backbone with reliable connectivity is essential to support Sarawak’s digital economy and the growing use of technology across Government, businesses and industries,” he said when tabling the Supply (2027) Bill, 2026 on Monday (Oct 12).

The SMART and JENDELA programmes form part of Sarawak’s wider push towards full internet connectivity, with official figures showing coverage by settlement area had reached 94.5 per cent.

Abang Johari said another RM20 million would be provided for Sarawak Rural Broadband Network subsidies to widen affordable broadband access.

Beyond connectivity, he said greater emphasis would also be placed on data governance and cybersecurity as more government services and economic activities move online.

The Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) will continue strengthening the management, sharing and protection of government data following the introduction of the Sarawak Data Governance Framework.

The Sarawak Cybersecurity Strategy and Roadmap 2030, launched earlier this month, will meanwhile guide efforts to protect government information and essential digital services while strengthening preparedness against scams, cyber fraud and emerging threats.

“For 2027, RM13 million is provided to SMA to carry out its digital regulatory functions and advance these data governance, cybersecurity and digital development initiatives,” Abang Johari said.