MALAYSIA asserted its ambition to help steer global digital policy towards a fairer and more inclusive future, using a high-level gathering in Baku, Azerbaijan to champion universal access, community-centred innovation and strengthened international cooperation.
Addressing guests at Malaysia’s luncheon in conjunction with the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the nation’s vision of “Inclusivity for an Equitable Future” underscores its belief that digital inclusion “is a right, not a privilege”.
He said, “This effort is realised through digital skills programmes, accessible infrastructure development and community innovation to ensure that no group is left behind in the digital mainstream,” presenting Malaysia’s strategy as a combination of skills development, accessible infrastructure and grassroots ingenuity.
The luncheon, he stressed, was not merely a social gathering but an opportunity to reaffirm shared commitments to sustainable development and wider global connectivity. He added that successful international partnerships have shown how improved connectivity can serve as a “catalyst for opportunity and progress”.
Datuk Fahmi noted that Malaysia takes pride in its long-standing partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), currently serving as a Council Member for the 2023–2026 term.
“Malaysia is proud to be a long-time partner of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and is now serving as a Council Member for the 2023–2026 term. Malaysia has also announced its new candidacy for the 2027–2030 term while seeking the support of member states,” he said, signalling Kuala Lumpur’s intention to strengthen its leadership role.
The event was attended by ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, who commended Malaysia’s digital policies, particularly its focus on universal connectivity, cyber security, digital trust and skills development.
She also highlighted the NADI Digital Inclusion project by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), winner of a WSIS 2025 Prize, describing it as a pivotal initiative bringing high-speed internet and digital training opportunities to remote communities across the country. - November 20, 2025
