KUCHING, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil has called on Malaysians to strengthen their resolve to move in step together, or 'Segulai Sejalai' in the Iban language, to build a more advanced, prosperous, and united Malaysia.
The nation, he said, must also strive to be respected at both the regional and international levels.
To achieve this, he said the spirit of unity, development, and technological progress must always serve as a bridge connecting the people, regardless of state, race, religion, or background.
"Let us make Sarawak's progress, Sabah's development, and the well-being of all Malaysians our shared success," he said in a video address during the Malaysia Day 2026 celebration at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching today.
He stressed that in today's digital era, the MADANI government continues to ensure that the people of Sabah and Sarawak are also part of the technological progress through the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA).
Fahmi emphasised that technological access and empowerment are not merely about providing Internet connectivity, but are key catalysts for raising the standard of living in rural and interior areas.
"Digitalisation is not merely about Internet access. It opens up opportunities in education, the economy, and entrepreneurship for all citizens, leaving no one behind," he said.
He said the government is stepping up the construction of telecommunications towers to realise this agenda.
It is also expanding the number of National Information Dissemination Centres (NADI), with 23 approved for Sarawak in 2024, which are now completed.
Fahmi also highlighted the success of NADI Pulau Banggi in Sabah, which was crowned champion in the Capacity Building category at the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Prizes 2025.
"NADI Pulau Banggi's success on the international stage proves that location is no longer a barrier to achieving excellence, while also reflecting the MADANI government's commitment to ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the tide of digitalisation," he said.
-- BERNAMA