Malaysia looks to satellites and AI to strengthen disaster communications

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Malaysia strengthens disaster communications

Highlights

Malaysia is assessing the integration of satellite technology and artificial intelligence to strengthen disaster communications, particularly in remote areas, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission developed MCMC PRIME as an alternative mobile radio and internet communications system for when conventional networks fail, particularly during major floods.
Cooperation between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, telecommunications operators, the National Disaster Management Agency and other authorities is being strengthened to ensure disaster preparedness and reliable emergency communications.

This article was translated from the original. Read the original version by our correspondent here.

Technology strategies for emergency preparedness

As reported by The Edge Malaysia, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said at the Digital Leadership Forum on the sidelines of Mobile World Congress Doha 2026 that new technologies can complement conventional telecommunications infrastructure during disasters, particularly in remote areas and places that need alternative connectivity solutions.

He said Malaysia sees significant potential in combining terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks to strengthen communications resilience during emergencies. Reliable connectivity is essential during disasters, he said, as it enables response teams to coordinate rescue operations and affected communities to receive critical information in a timely manner.

Fahmi said communications during disasters are more than just a convenience; they can determine whether aid arrives promptly or communities remain cut off. He also stressed the importance of rapid public alerts and reliable access to official information so people can take appropriate precautions.

The role of MCMC PRIME and agency coordination

To address network disruptions, Fahmi said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission had developed MCMC PRIME, a mobile radio and internet communications system designed to support connectivity when conventional telecommunications networks are disrupted.

He said the system provides an alternative communications channel during emergencies and helps coordinate response teams while maintaining access to critical information. The initiative is particularly relevant during major floods, he said, when damage to telecommunications infrastructure or power outages affect conventional mobile networks.

Malaysia is also stressing close coordination between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, telecommunications operators, the National Disaster Management Agency and other relevant authorities. This cooperation is important for supporting disaster preparedness, identifying damaged network infrastructure, coordinating restoration work, and facilitating communications for emergency responders and affected communities.

In our previous coverage of the Madani Submarine Cable project (Hello), we explained the government's efforts to strengthen telecommunications connectivity between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak through a high-capacity domestic submarine cable, with work expected to begin in the first quarter of 2027 and be completed by the fourth quarter of 2029. The article also covered the implementation of Jendela 2, which includes 1,000 new sites—including 352 in Sabah—to expand 4G, 5G and satellite coverage as part of efforts to improve the resilience of the country's communications infrastructure.

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