KUALA LUMPUR: The government will introduce a 5G Ecosystem Development grant worth RM5 million to encourage technological innovation in the country.
Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng, when tabling the 2020 Budget today, said the government will also allocate RM25 million for digital application matching grants.
"This is to encourage more digital application pilot projects for delivery drones, self-driving cars, blockchain technology, and other products and services that will benefit investment in fibre optic and 5G infrastructure," he said in Parliament.
A total of RM20 million will also be allocated to the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation to build local champions in digital content, particularly in e-gaming, animation and digital arts.
Lim also said the government, through the five-year National Fiberisation and Connectivity Plan (NFCP), will ensure quality high speed connectivity throughout the country, with an investment of RM21.6 billion.
As part of the NFCP, the government will also increase connectivity in rural areas, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.
"The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission will allocate RM250 million to provide broadband access through satellite technology.
"Priority will be given to locations in states that can facilitate and speed up the NFCP," he added.