Johor and MCMC strengthen digital collaboration with strategic MoU

With a RM300mn boost, the collaboration will expand 5G coverage, improve public internet access, and strengthen digital literacy across Johor.

The Johor State Government and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have established a strategic partnership aiming to accelerate digital transformation across the state. Formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 21 April 2025 (Monday), the collaboration focuses on strengthening Johor’s digital infrastructure, expanding internet access, and promoting awareness of cyber security as well as digital literacy.

The MoU exchange took place in Johor Bahru and was witnessed by His Royal Highness Tunku Mahkota Ismail Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, Acting Sultan of Johor; Johor Chief Minister Dato' Onn Hafiz Ghazi, and Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil. Over the next two years, approximately RM300mn will be channelled into various initiatives under this collaboration.

Among the key areas of focus are expanding 5G coverage to strategic, high-traffic locations including public transit centers and sports facilities, industrial areas, tourist hotspots and in data center project areas. This supports Johor’s growing role as Southeast Asia’s fastest-emerging data centre hub, with capacity expected to exceed 2.7 gigawatts (GW) by 2027.

Public Wi-Fi access will also be improved under the Johor Safe City initiative, which aims to provide safe and reliable internet for residents and tourists. Alongside this, the partnership will introduce programmes to raise awareness about cybersecurity and improve digital literacy to help people navigate online spaces with greater safety.

The collaboration will encourage the use of smart technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) applications across public and private sectors. It also aims to ensure that areas such as the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is seen as a key driver for future investment; and that the JS-SEZ is supported by strong, stable, and comprehensive digital infrastructure and internet access in order to increase trade and business in the area.

Ultimately, as affirmed at the MoU signing, the Johor-MCMC partnership seeks to be a step towards building a progressive technological and economic transformation that benefits everyone.

READ MORE: JS-SEZ dubbed as new ASEAN growth hub

Lead image / Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission