In wake of cabotage reversal criticism, Wee reveals possible Japan cable project

KUALA LUMPUR – Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) plans to launch a subsea cable system called the Intra-Asia Cable Express, which could involve Malaysia, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong, who is facing criticism over reversing the country’s cabotage exemption policy.

Wee said the NTT has approached the Malaysian government to bring in the cable project to pass through Sabah and Sarawak.

NTT is currently helming the “Apricot” subsea cable project to connect Singapore, Japan, Guam, the Philippines, Taiwan and Indonesia within a consortium that includes internet giants Google and Facebook.

Wee said this proposal should address claims that his ministry is hampering foreign investments and allowing the country to face losses.

The MCA president made the announcement over the country’s cabotage policy on foreign ships while wrapping up his debate with DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, which was broadcast on TV3’s Bulletin Utama and Astro Awani this evening.

Wee also shared a brief video clip of a video conference of himself and NTT chief executive Yoshio Sato, who expressed interest in bringing the new project to Malaysia.

“Does this not benefit Malaysia? Is this not the MyDigital agenda that we have been dreaming of?” Wee said.

Wee added he will expedite the matter by arranging meetings between Sato and the Communications and Multimedia Ministry, the Finance Ministry, and the International Trade and Industry Ministry.

“We will make a swift decision so that we can provide it (NTT) with support. That is why the Transport Ministry should not be accused of restricting foreign investments.”

Meanwhile, Lim said such policies should benefit both the people and the country’s digital policy.

The Bagan MP also cited former Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chairman Datuk Rais Hussin, who reportedly noted foregone investment of RM12 billion to RM15 billion following the reversal on cabotage exemption for high-technology companies.

Lim also pointed to the Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd (MIDF) research arm, which estimated RM1.7 billion in missed opportunities for data connectivity and investments.

“This policy must benefit the people and also the digital future of the country, not to serve the interests of some quarters, which only benefits certain individuals,” Lim said.

“I am surprised because the information came from the government; Rais Hussin was with the government and not a member of DAP or Pakatan Harapan.

“Rais is a strong supporter of Bersatu and Bersatu is in the government. If we can’t believe in the government, who else can we believe?” he said. – The Vibes, November 2, 2021