BUTTERWORTH, Sept 17 — The MADANI Government is committed to creating a safer, more inclusive and trusted digital environment, in a bid to safeguard national interests, economic stability, and the well-being of the people.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said, for that purpose, the government has launched a nationwide awareness initiative, the Safe Internet Campaign to strengthen public understanding of digital safety challenges.
He said these challenges include online scams, digital gambling, cyberbullying, child sexual abuse content, and social media misuse by children under the age of 13.
“Let us all play our part in cultivating a positive digital and communications space by sharing stories of success, inspiration, and noble values that unite rather than divide.”
Fahmi said this at the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration, themed Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni at the PICCA@Arena Butterworth Convention Centre here last night.
The celebration was graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas representing Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah Datuk Shahelmey Yahya representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, as the host, along with the Cabinet line-up, were present.
In his speech, Fahmi, who chairs the National Day and Malaysia Day 2025 Main Organising Committee (HKHM 2025), also highlighted the government’s efforts to expand digital connectivity through the National Dissemination Centre (NADI) MADANI, particularly in rural areas.
“Two days ago, I officiated the opening of NADI MADANI Penanti, one of 42 NADI centres in Penang. This is part of the Communications Ministry’s initiative to extend digital access to all citizens, regardless of location or background.
“Through NADI MADANI, more people, especially in rural and remote areas, will benefit from high-speed internet access, digital literacy training, and opportunities to participate in the digital economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said the selection of Penang as host for this year’s celebration underscores the government’s commitment to keeping with the tradition of rotating the host location annually among Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia and ensuring that national festivities are inclusive and representative of the three regions.
He noted that Penang not only boasts rich cultural and historical heritage but also stands as a living example of interfaith and interethnic harmony, as seen in George Town’s Street of Harmony.
“Here, the Kapitan Keling Mosque stands alongside the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, St. George’s Church, and the Kuan Yin Temple, which is a clear reflection of religious and cultural harmony.
“Penang proves that unity is not just a slogan, but a lived and thriving reality,” he added. — Bernama