THE National Information Dissemination Centres (NADI) have been formally recognised as Digital Transformation Centres by the International Telecommunication Union, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push to bridge the digital divide and empower communities through technology.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the recognition underscores Malaysia’s commitment to ensuring that digital opportunities are accessible to all segments of society, while strengthening international collaboration towards a more inclusive digital future.
“To our distinguished foreign delegates and strategic partners, a very warm welcome to Permatang Pauh in the state of Pulau Pinang.
“We are honoured by your presence today as we celebrate this important milestone in our digital inclusion journey, but also in our effort to uplift lives and empower communities through technology.
“This recognition reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that digital opportunities are accessible to all communities, and we look forward to strengthening our collaboration towards a more inclusive and connected digital future,” he said.
Speaking at a recognition ceremony at NADI Kubang Semang in Seberang Perai, Penang, Fahmi highlighted the rapid expansion of the initiative, with 1,099 centres now operating nationwide and membership reaching 1.9 million.
He said the network has evolved into a vital platform enabling communities to adapt to economic and technological change, particularly through its Smart Services framework, which focuses on entrepreneurship, lifelong learning, self-wellbeing, awareness and government initiatives.
“Through the pillars of entrepreneurship and lifelong learning, NADI helps the public acquire new skills, enhance knowledge and open up broader economic opportunities.
“Small entrepreneurs are able to leverage digital platforms to market their products, while youth and local communities can build skills that add value to their lives,” he said.
In Pulau Pinang alone, 42 NADI centres are actively supporting local communities, providing not only access to digital tools but also pathways to improve livelihoods and strengthen small businesses.
Fahmi cited several success stories as evidence of the programme’s impact, including a small-scale food entrepreneur who expanded her business into a physical kiosk after receiving training and guidance through NADI, as well as another participant who turned cooking skills into a growing online business.
He also highlighted the academic success of a student who achieved outstanding examination results through the NADI tuition programme.
“This is the true meaning of digital transformation. When technology is not merely seen as a convenience, but becomes a tool that helps people build better lives,” he said.
He added that Malaysia’s efforts had already gained international recognition through the World Summit on the Information Society Prizes in the capacity-building category, with the latest designation as an ITU Digital Transformation Centre further reinforcing the initiative’s global impact.
Fahmi said the Communications Ministry, through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, would continue to strengthen NADI’s role as a national digital community hub by expanding literacy programmes, developing new skills and widening access to opportunities.
“Our focus is clear, which is to ensure that the people not only have access to technology, but are truly able to use it to transform their lives.
“God willing, NADI will continue to be a key catalyst in empowering the people and building a more inclusive and competitive digital society,” he said. - April 25, 2026
