KUALA LUMPUR, 19 January - The rollout of 5G networks in Malaysia is focusing on strategic sectors with 67 industrial zones identified as priorities to ensure maximum benefits from the technology.

Communications Minister, Fahmi Fadzil said these sectors are able to support the development of digital ecosystems, improve operational efficiency and drive innovation in various industries.

"For the 5G network, the focus is not necessarily 100 percent coverage. Our focus is on areas that we see can reap the most benefits, such as industrial zones," he said.

"This will help Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and factories take advantage of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data, which require high-speed and secure internet," he added.

Fahmi also said the implementation of the 5G network service would also be discussed at the Digital Economy and Fourth Industrial Revolution Council (MED4IR) meeting on 12 February.

As of December 2024, 5G network coverage nationwide had achieved 82.4 percent coverage in populated areas.

Fahmi, who is Lembah Pantai Member of Parliament, said this to reporters after attending a Chinese New Year contribution programme at the Taman Seri Sentosa morning market, here.

More than 700 Chinese families in the Lembah Pantai area received donations in the form of vouchers worth RM150, which were personally distributed by Fahmi.