PETALING JAYA: In 2022, 5G coverage will be expanded to cover 36% of high density areas, including the biggest cities in Johor, Selangor, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak.

       In an earlier statement, the Communications and Multimedia Ministry said the initial 5G rollout was expected to be launched by the end of the year starting in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Cyberjaya.

       The National Digital Network (Jendela) initiative would also receive an allocation of RM700mil to expand broadband coverage, especially in 47 industrial areas and 630 schools, especially those in rural areas.

       An additional RM30mil would also be allocated to provide Internet facilities at 40 existing people's housing projects (PPRs).

       Jendela aims to provide Malaysians with quality access to digital connectivity starting with the Phase 1 which would expand 4G mobile coverage from 91.8% to 96.9% in highly populated areas in 2022.

       It was also planning for the gradual sunsetting of 3G networks by the end of the year, which would coincide with the planned rollout of 5G.