PUTRAJAYA, Nov 6 – Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil is leading Malaysia’s delegation to Qatar to strengthen the country’s position in global telecommunications.
The delegation is attending the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 in Doha from Nov 6 to 11.
During the conference, Malaysia will seek re-election to the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term.
The meeting is important because it will shape global telecommunications and information technology policies for the next four years.
Malaysia Seeks Another Term on ITU Council
Malaysia wants to continue serving on the ITU Council. The council plays an important role in global telecommunications decisions.
In addition, Malaysia aims to protect its interests in the fast-growing digital industry.
A council seat would allow the country to take part in discussions on several key areas, including:
- Digital infrastructure development
- International technology standards
- Cybersecurity
- Telecommunications policies
- Reducing the digital divide
The digital divide refers to the gap between people who have access to digital technology and those who do not.
Meanwhile, the ITU Council has 48 member countries. It oversees the organisation’s policies, finances and work programmes between major conferences.
Conference to Decide Global Technology Policies
The ITU Plenipotentiary Conference takes place every four years.
This year’s meeting will set the organisation’s policies and strategic plans for 2027 to 2030.
It will also elect the ITU’s top leadership, members of the Radio Regulations Board and 48 countries to serve on the council.
Therefore, Malaysia’s participation is important for its international digital strategy.
Through this conference, the country also hopes to build stronger relationships with other ITU member states, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.
Fahmi to Present Malaysia’s National Policy Statement
Fahmi is scheduled to attend the heads of delegation meeting, opening ceremony and plenary session on Nov 9.
During the session, he will deliver Malaysia’s national policy statement.
He will also join a high-level discussion on strategic telecommunications and information and communications technology (ICT) development.
In addition, Malaysia will host a lunch reception at the conference venue.
The event will provide an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic ties. It will also highlight Malaysia’s achievements during its current term on the ITU Council.
Malaysia to Strengthen Ties with Its Community in Qatar
Apart from official conference activities, Fahmi is also scheduled to meet Malaysians living in Doha.
The meeting will include representatives from the Malaysian Association in Qatar, the Malaysian Business Executive Council-Qatar, community groups and students.
He is also expected to attend Sukan Malaysia Qatar (SUQMA).
The event is organised by the Malaysian Association of Qatar in collaboration with Malaysia’s diplomatic mission in Doha.
Malaysia’s Long History with ITU
Malaysia joined the International Telecommunication Union on Feb 3, 1958.
The country previously served four consecutive terms on the ITU Council from 1998 to 2014.
Later, Malaysia secured another council seat for the 2023–2026 term during the 2022 conference in Bucharest, Romania.
Now, Malaysia is seeking another term.
If successful, the country will continue contributing to international telecommunications policies, technology standards and digital development.
Source : BERNAMA | Rewritten By Minutesmy
