Anwar Expresses Disappointment Over Delay of Digital Projects and Apologizes for Outburst

On December 5, 2024, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed disappointment over the delay in the implementation of two key digital initiatives: the National Digital Identity (MyDigital ID) and the second 5G network. He revealed that the digital identity project had been delayed by a year, and the second 5G network remained stalled due to a lack of progress in negotiations between the national digital company (DNB) and telecommunications companies.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, admitted feeling frustrated by the delays. He shared his dissatisfaction during a monthly meeting at the Ministry of Finance and mentioned that the delay could be seen as negligence, hindering the nation's digital transformation agenda. He pointed out that with Malaysia set to chair ASEAN in 2025, these projects were crucial for the country's development in areas such as digital connectivity, food technology, and energy networks.

The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of accelerating the implementation of these projects, noting that Malaysia should be ready to be a leading nation and a role model by next year. He also apologized for his outburst during the previous day's meeting of the National Digital Economy and 4th Industrial Revolution Council (MED4IRN), acknowledging his emotional response and stating that he was only human.

The National Digital Identity is a government initiative launched in 2016 to provide secure and efficient online identity verification. The second 5G network is intended to complement DNB's existing single wholesale network (SWN) and improve digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved rural areas.