THE Ministry of Communications has officially launched the Sabah-level rollout of the Integrated Mobile Radio and Internet Communication System (PRIME), aimed at strengthening disaster response and communication resilience in the state.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil officiated the launch at the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) in Kampung Sungai Imam, Tawau, during the Hari Bersama Komuniti (HBK) programme on Sunday.
The PRIME system, developed by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), is a vehicle-based mobile communications unit equipped with satellite connectivity, cellular networks, mobile radio, Wi-Fi and drone support capabilities.
“PRIME enables faster and more efficient coordination during disaster response missions, particularly in rural and remote areas, by enhancing connectivity for emergency agencies on the ground,” said Fahmi.
Two PRIME units have been deployed so far—one in Peninsular Malaysia and one in Sabah—while a third, designated for Sarawak, is expected to be operational by October 2025.
In conjunction with the event, those present also celebrated National Day and Malaysia Day held simultaneously across 1,099 NADI centres nationwide, featuring smart service activities, KPDN’s RAHMAH sales initiative, and exhibitions by local entrepreneurs.
The programme also included the presentation of the PERMAI Excellent Student Device Aid initiative by the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department, as well as appointment letters for NADI Advisory Panel Chairpersons for the Kalabakan, Tawau and Lahad Datu parliamentary constituencies.
Earlier in the day, Fahmi visited the Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) Phase 1 tower in Kampung Kuala Merotai, Tawau, to inspect telecommunication coverage following complaints about service disruptions.
“I personally visited the JENDELA tower in Kampung Kuala Merotai after receiving reports of telecommunications issues. We were informed by the community and local representatives that the disruptions were caused by power supply interruptions,” he said.
“Thankfully, the service providers resolved the issue, and connectivity has since been restored. I thank all parties who came forward with the necessary information.”
To prevent similar disruptions in future, service providers have been directed to install backup generators and increase battery capacity to ensure at least eight hours of backup power.
Operational since 27 September 2024, the Kuala Merotai tower utilises a 4-Way Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN), with shared services by CelcomDigi, Maxis and U Mobile, managed by Redtone.
Testing via the MCMC NEXUS app confirmed that the tower delivers average 4G speeds of approximately 50Mbps, benefiting around 1,200 residents in the area.
“This is proof of the MADANI Government’s continued efforts to ensure that the rakyat enjoys reliable and high-quality telecommunication coverage, regardless of location,” said Fahmi.
Also present were Communications Ministry Secretary-General Dato’ Seri Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa and MCMC Managing Director Abdul Karim Fakir Ali. - Sept 7, 2025
