Malaysia’s digital landscape is rapidly transforming — and the latest data shows just how far the country has come. With internet costs dropping to among the lowest in the world and 5G deployment progressing at extraordinary speed, Malaysia is positioning itself as a regional leader in connectivity and digital infrastructure.
1. What’s happening – headline & overview
According to Fahmi Fadzil, Malaysia is now among the top 10 countries where the cost of internet data per gigabyte is extremely low — around 2 US cents per GB.
At the same time, Malaysia has rolled out its 5G network at “an exceptionally rapid pace,” resulting in the country now having the fastest 5G network in Southeast Asia and the second fastest in the Asia-Pacific region, behind South Korea.
2. Why the drop in cost & faster network matters
- The very low cost per gigabyte signals that the government is actively ensuring affordable and inclusive digital connectivity.
- Rapid deployment of 5G not only improves speed, but also enables broader access and ‘future-proofing’ of digital infrastructure.
- These moves can support digital transformation across government services, businesses (especially SMEs), and consumers — positioning Malaysia to better leverage digital opportunities.
3. Key quotes & context
- “We are one of the 10 countries where (internet rates) per gigabyte, the cost is about 2 cents,” Malaysia’s Communication Minister said during a reception with the Malaysian diaspora in Baku.
- He noted that Malaysian telecommunications companies were able to “sit together at one table and come to some kind of consensus.”
- He is leading Malaysia’s delegation to the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25) in Baku from 16-19 Nov, as part of efforts to retain Malaysia’s seat on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council for the 2027-2030 term.
- In addition, Malaysia’s hosting of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in October was highlighted as showcasing its diplomatic strength.
4. Why this is significant for Malaysia’s digital economy
- Lower cost, higher access: With internet data becoming very inexpensive, more people can get online, which can spur innovation, e-commerce, remote work, and digital services.
- Competitive edge: Having one of the fastest 5G networks in the region strengthens Malaysia’s position to attract investment in tech, digital industries, and connectivity infrastructure.
- Inclusivity: Affordable connectivity helps reduce the digital divide — urban vs rural, rich vs less-well-off — which is important for holistic economic growth.
- Policy & cooperation: The statement about telcos reaching consensus suggests maturation of Malaysia’s telecom ecosystem. That fosters stability and investment.
5. Things to watch / challenges ahead
- Sustainability: Can the low cost per GB be maintained without compromising quality, network maintenance, and future upgrades?
- Coverage & reach: Fast speeds and low costs matter only if access is widespread — rural and remote areas may still lag.
- Usage & skills: Affordable internet is enabler, not outcome. The next step is ensuring people and businesses make full use of digital connectivity (e.g., digital literacy, e-commerce, IoT).
- Competition & regulation: Keeping telcos competitive and fair, while avoiding monopolistic practices or infrastructure bottlenecks, will matter.
- Global context: Being “one of the cheapest” is good — but the benchmark is always evolving. Malaysia must continue to innovate to stay ahead.
Conclusion & call-to-action
Malaysia’s achievement of being among the cheapest countries for internet data per gigabyte, combined with its rapid 5G rollout, are strong signals that the country is serious about building a connected future. However, connectivity alone is not enough. To fully reap the benefits, Malaysia needs to:
- Invest in digital literacy and skills so that more citizens and businesses can leverage the connectivity.
- Ensure broad and equitable coverage, especially in underserved regions.
- Encourage digital innovation: e-commerce, digital services, smart city solutions, IoT, to take advantage of the infrastructure.
- Monitor and maintain affordability without sacrificing quality or sustainability of networks.
For businesses and digital entrepreneurs: this is a moment to act now — with low barriers to connectivity, it’s a favourable environment to innovate, expand digital services, and reach new audiences. For policymakers and telcos: the work continues — not just building networks, but building ecosystems and ensuring meaningful usage.
