IPOH: The Economic Planning Unit (EPU) held a 12th Malaysia Plan roadshow with the Perak state government in Kuala Lumpur on Wednesday (Nov 17).
Focusing on digital development, the event was attended by Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Economy) Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed and Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and other dignitaries.
In a statement issued by the EPU, it said the roadshow was aimed at disseminating policies, strategies and initiatives of the plan to all stakeholders at the state level.
The Perak government emphasised on digitalisation, especially for micro, small and medium enterprises.
"The importance of digital coverage quality needs to be addressed, not just on mobile broadband penetration.
"Connectivity is a key driver to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth."
It added that the digital infrastructure in Perak was being improved through the two-year National Digital Network Plan (Jendela).
Until the fourth quarter of the year, there had been several notable achievements which included the construction of 176 new towers to expand 4G coverage, with 46 new towers having been completed to date.
Besides that, 1,882 transmitter stations for 4G coverage were being upgraded; 252,475 premises will be receiving fiber optics access; and 73 Orang Asli villages will also receive wireless satellite broadband coverage.
The Cabinet meeting on Oct 13 had agreed to establish the Fourth Industrial Revolution Digital Economy and Policy council chaired by Mustapa.
The first meeting was expected to be held soon to harmonise digital development plans both at the federal and state levels.
"The initiatives of the Federal Government and state governments need to be aligned to transform Malaysia into a high-income country driven by technology and digitalisation.
"The council will also be a platform to share ideas and experiences on digital development in their respective states as some of them already have careful planning for the future," it said.