The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced the advancement of the Sambungan Kabel Dasar Laut MADANI (SALAM) initiative, a strategic national project under the Universal Service Provision (USP) framework. The SALAM initiative aims to strengthen Malaysia’s domestic digital infrastructure by establishing a new submarine cable system linking Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. This system will consist of 10 Cable Landing Stations (CLS) interconnected by four submarine cable segments, spanning approximately 5,582 kilometers.

By expanding network capacity and introducing geographically diverse connectivity routes, the SALAM project is designed to enhance network redundancy, reduce the risk of service disruptions, and improve the resilience and reliability of Malaysia’s communications infrastructure. The initiative will also support the expansion of broadband and 5G networks, as well as the growth of cloud infrastructure, data centers, and emerging digital industries such as Artificial Intelligence (AI).

MCMC is inviting all eligible licensees to participate by submitting a Registration of Interest along with a Draft Universal Service Plan for evaluation, in accordance with Regulation 5 of the Communications and Multimedia (Universal Service Provision) Regulations 2002. This call for participation is a key opportunity for stakeholders to contribute to the development of Malaysia’s digital backbone and support the nation’s digital economy and inclusion agenda.

The SALAM initiative is expected to have a significant impact on telecommunications operators, internet service providers, technology companies, and end users by improving service continuity and supporting long-term national resilience.

This measure is assessed as Medium Impact.

The initiative is currently at the consultation and planning stage, inviting eligible licensees to submit draft plans for a major national submarine cable project.

Key reasons for Medium Impact:

• The measure is not yet final or mandatory, but it signals significant upcoming changes to Malaysia’s digital infrastructure.
• It will affect a broad range of stakeholders, including telecom operators, ISPs, and technology infrastructure providers.
• The project will underpin future broadband, 5G, and digital industry growth, but immediate compliance actions are limited to participation in the consultation.

Who is affected?

Eligible licensees, telecom operators, infrastructure providers, and indirectly, technology companies and end users.

Conclusion:

Stakeholders should monitor the development of the SALAM initiative and consider participating in the consultation process, as future regulatory and operational requirements may arise once the project moves to implementation.