BATU KAWAN, May 2 – In a significant move to strengthen Penang’s digital future, Maxis has announced the expansion of its fibre network infrastructure across the state, targeting to connect over 100,000 homes by 2027. This strategic rollout will span all districts in Penang, with high-density urban areas such as Jelutong, Georgetown, Batu Maung, Bayan Lepas, and Bayan Baru among the first to benefit, alongside vital areas in Mainland Penang.

The official launch, held at Dewan MPKK Bandar Cassia, Batu Kawan, was officiated by YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, with Maxis CEO Goh Seow Eng in attendance. The initiative is in line with the Penang2030 vision to transform Penang into a green, smart, and family-focused state, and reinforces Maxis’ long-term commitment to Malaysia’s digital transformation.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow praised the expansion as a crucial move in bridging the digital divide. He highlighted Maxis’ efforts as a strong example of effective public-private collaboration in advancing inclusive and sustainable digital growth. “Reliable, high-speed connectivity is essential in today’s world—it drives education, innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering our communities to fully participate in the digital economy,” he said. Chow emphasized that connectivity is no longer a privilege but a fundamental need for progress and inclusion.

Maxis CEO Goh Seow Eng affirmed the company’s focus on network ownership to ensure quality service delivery. “Building our own fibre network allows us to deliver fast, secure and scalable connectivity, ready to support speeds of up to 10 Gbps. We are honoured to be a partner in Penang’s digital journey,” he said. He also credited the Penang State Government for its pioneering Last Mile Connectivity Guidelines, the first of its kind in Malaysia, which have accelerated fibre deployment across the state.

A key driver behind the initiative is Penang’s groundbreaking “Last Mile Connectivity Guidelines,” Malaysia’s first regulatory framework designed to streamline pole-sharing and accelerate fibre deployment. Maxis commended the Penang state government for its visionary approach, noting that this model sets a strong precedent for other states to adopt in their pursuit of digital advancement.

Maxis Home Fibre currently offers high-speed internet plans ranging from RM89/month to RM319/month, with speeds from 100 Mbps up to 2 Gbps, ideal for seamless streaming, online gaming, and remote working. Prioritizing value, reliability, and customer satisfaction, selected plans come bundled with a WiFi 6 router and the option to pair with Maxis Postpaid for added savings and convenience.

Maxis currently manages an extensive fibre network that stretches over 23,000 kilometres and serves more than 500,000 premises across Malaysia. Its latest investment in Penang forms part of a nationwide strategy, launched in 2022, to expand high-speed broadband through a mix of owned infrastructure and strategic partnerships. This initiative supports the national JENDELA plan, aimed at accelerating digital connectivity and closing the digital divide throughout the country.

The expansion will significantly benefit both urban and rural communities, driving greater digital inclusivity and economic development. With fibre rollout in Penang set to commence soon, the state is well-positioned as a model for digital infrastructure planning in Malaysia. As Maxis reinforces its commitment to nationwide connectivity, Penang residents and businesses can look forward to improved access to digital tools, fostering innovation and new opportunities for growth.

Attachment above is Malaysia’s first framework designed to streamline pole-sharing and accelerate fibre rollout, as the Penang State Government sets a nationwide model for digital infrastructure.